Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

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?

National Australia Bank (NAB) has brought forward the timing of the first RBA cash rate cut by three months.

NAB is now expecting a cut in February, in line with ANZ and Westpac, having initially thought a cut wouldn't come until May.

Commonwealth Bank, the nation's largest lender, still thinks the first cut will come in December.

NAB changed its call following the August monthly inflation figures that were released at the end of September, showing it had dropped to 2.7 per cent.

"The risk has been skewed to a first cut earlier in 2025, and today’s change acknowledges the balance of risks has likely shifted sufficiently for the RBA to feel comfortable cutting a little sooner than we earlier expected," NAB noted in its latest update.

They added that the cadence of the cuts may be faster than its central profile.

"Domestic inflation pressures are cooling, but only gradually, and we continue to expect the conditions for a cut will not be in place this year.

NAB believes the easing cycle will end at 3.1 per cent by early 2026, which is five cuts from the current 4.35 per cent cash rate.&nbsp;

CBA also thinks 3.1 per cent will mark the end of the cutting cycle, while Westpac is forecasting 3.35 per cent, and ANZ is the most pessimistic at 3.6 per cent, which would be just three interest rate cuts.

<h2>What would a rate cut in February look like for borrowers?</h2>

According to&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3Du001.IVvjJ-2BPT0A8C3VxtqKc6e3bj5hBuw27WFEYqovsYs7kPsgFulYrdOzeP8gI7CybJOya3_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20hPXdLlPP9yD7DvFFDBM5yrTqxvcCiMfAsW1onD-2FcriL628eYdhNQE7bwzYrxcOYnmaYfRhGl-2FEHQ6eK2uQcLxs6Cbu6Dx0bYvpi5A6enmxMWU5TkcRYrP6Z8GbXZYtc5qSoKu6eWFBQR9K7fsjXwHMmby3D3X6Yx-2BxcDcdRruTG&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1727774368149000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2vK2ujS77CHs9VRvSSXzLC" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.IVvjJ-2BPT0A8C3VxtqKc6e3bj5hBuw27WFEYqovsYs7kPsgFulYrdOzeP8gI7CybJOya3_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20hPXdLlPP9yD7DvFFDBM5yrTqxvcCiMfAsW1onD-2FcriL628eYdhNQE7bwzYrxcOYnmaYfRhGl-2FEHQ6eK2uQcLxs6Cbu6Dx0bYvpi5A6enmxMWU5TkcRYrP6Z8GbXZYtc5qSoKu6eWFBQR9K7fsjXwHMmby3D3X6Yx-2BxcDcdRruTG" target="_blank">Canstar</a>, if there is a cut in February, a borrower with a $600,000 loan today and 25 years remaining would see their monthly repayments drop by $92.&nbsp;

<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td colspan="3">
			Impact of 0.25% pt cut in February 2025
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Current loan size
			</td>
			<td>
			Drop in monthly repayment
			</td>
			<td>
			New monthly repayment
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			$600,000
			</td>
			<td>
			-$92
			</td>
			<td>
			$3,907
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			$750,000
			</td>
			<td>
			-$114
			</td>
			<td>
			$4,884
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			$1M
			</td>
			<td>
			-$153
			</td>
			<td>
			$6,512
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td colspan="3">
			Source:&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3Du001.xWMOP9hChsvn-2BC9O-2FebBihXIZ4cEzbiuENdxm-2Bx3-2FYEEgYMhZlKWNj5Zzy1YZ56RuASD_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20v2akwr6-2BqLyRrlEgkJ4J-2BCCyY0x189xEHZA4Ylf8c7ChBqNIkhmftZzoFuZKFn43pw3oJVg2o1gumrpdA-2B7MB-2FBtmL2rFCI-2FXORATQHySCLVOMg7Vywv-2BqnnQUAtDz6XkvpwxdHFXh70VwKazzhJsICilEYOvP4ju0sIfi5g6TL&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1727774368149000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2qVnp6oqATgqDUi2Frm22q" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xWMOP9hChsvn-2BC9O-2FebBihXIZ4cEzbiuENdxm-2Bx3-2FYEEgYMhZlKWNj5Zzy1YZ56RuASD_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20v2akwr6-2BqLyRrlEgkJ4J-2BCCyY0x189xEHZA4Ylf8c7ChBqNIkhmftZzoFuZKFn43pw3oJVg2o1gumrpdA-2B7MB-2FBtmL2rFCI-2FXORATQHySCLVOMg7Vywv-2BqnnQUAtDz6XkvpwxdHFXh70VwKazzhJsICilEYOvP4ju0sIfi5g6TL" target="_blank">www.canstar.com.au</a>. Starting rate is the RBA existing average owner-occupier variable rate of 6.36%. Assumes banks pass the cash rate cut on in full the month after the meeting.
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Canstar Data Insights Director, Sally Tindall, says if core inflation continues to track in the right direction, or unemployment starts to accelerate significantly, we could well see a cash rate cut as early as February of next year.

“All four big banks now believe the RBA will be ready to cut the cash rate in just over four months’ time, if not before, in the case of CBA.

“However, the outlook for both inflation and unemployment is still highly uncertain. A couple of wobbly sets of inflation data could see the RBA holding for longer, particularly if unemployment remains relatively steady."

&nbsp;

Commonwealth Bank, the nation's largest lender, still thinks the first cut will come in December.

NAB bring forward first RBA cut to February 2025

<html><body>
The negatively-geared seminar is usually the first type of seminar I see people attend when they become interested in wealth or property investment. Sometimes, people just attend out of curiosity.
From the outset I need to explain, I am a big fan of negative gearing. However the point I need to make is not about negative gearing itself but the product that the promoters are actually trying to sell.
Usually the presentation or pitch opens with something like:
• Are you sick of ‘working for the man’?
• Then the presenter will show some figure that makes it look like that almost 90%+ of people retire on less than approximately $30,000.
• They will then demonstrate that with the tax you currently pay to the government, you could be funding your future! They often use analogies such as “Did you know you currently work Monday, Tuesday and part of Wednesday of each week before you start making money for yourself?”
It’s no more than an attempt to get your interest by bringing your attention to the tax you pay as a problem that needs to be addressed.
• Then they begin to show you the ins and outs of tax offset allowances that the government permits under negative gearing rules. These are the ‘upside’ of the making losses on a property on a month to month basis (mortgages, levies, outgoings, etc).
Once you’ve understood negative gearing
It’s not the notion of negative gearing itself that I have a problem with. But pay attention to the fact that the real reason these people are here, talking to investors in their seminar room, is that they are trying to sell you something.
And guess what, wow, aren’t you lucky, can you believe it? In the nick of time right after they just finished their amazing seminar telling you how much tax they could save you, they also just happened to have the perfect investment property for you as well! Aren’t you lucky? Hardly.
I have been to some fancy shindigs on the back of a negatively-geared property presentation. Some served sandwiches, some served caviar, but the reality is that all of them are serving up the same unbelievably overpriced property. All of them. No exceptions. If anyone can contact me and identify a property at one of these seminars that is great buying and I can’t find 10 better in just one day’s work, I’ll buy the damn property. How’s that for a guarantee?
Research my a$&amp;e!
These people will carry on about how well researched the property investment they have found for you is. They might even pretend to have full-time investment analysts! The reality is, the only analysing these analysts are doing is scoping out which developments they can get access to where they can get generous kickbacks from the developers. Of course, that’s on top of whatever else they might have charged you!
Kickbacks [the property mafia, with their hand in your pocket!]
These kickbacks usually fall into the tens of thousands. For a $300,000 to $400,000 property, they are usually overpriced by between $30,000 and $50,000 to begin with, and this is just for starters.
Example: When the west was booming, I had an email sent to me from a developer for a kickback of $150,000 paid to anyone who could refer them a buyer. Of course, my job description does not permit me to take a kickback. The property was selling for $800,000 and on closer inspection it was laced with profit for the developer. It was just a shame there was nothing for the investor!
Like the example above, this margin is usually significant. Often these spruikers are tied up with the developers who have taken the property from its concept stage. They will tell you that they have the ability to ‘bulk buy’ to give value back to you. In almost 100% of cases this is not correct. They deliver the bulk-buying discount to themselves. This is usually only evident when the properties sell for $50–100k less some 5–7 years later. There are some tragic stories about people losing their life savings over these ‘scams’ – and I do emphasise the word scam. Google the name Henry Kaye and see where that takes you.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Big business
This form of investment and development sales is now a huge industry, and getting bigger, with the huge infusion of investment dollars from China and the Asia-Pacific. The problem is that some of these consortiums are now so huge (and clandestine, with channels through your accountant, financial planners and advisors) that they are looking for local targets as well, and that means you!
Their presentations are becoming more polished year after year. But it doesn’t change the product they are trying to sell. It’s exactly the same.
Right now, you might be confused because I haven’t told you exactly why they are such bad investments. I have only said that they are overpriced. You might think that a ‘discount’ might all of a sudden make them acceptable. Hold that thought and read on. I haven’t finished.
Tip
Only today while penning this chapter, I have a client of mine I recently purchased for [a unit in Sydney] who is sourcing finance for a property he purchased ‘off the plan’ in 2010 for $301,000, before I had met him. A finance valuation was completed in July 2012 and it came in at $230,000. This represents a 30% premium paid for the property in 2010. For those of you ‘off the planners’ who expect the property to increase over two years, have you considered that it could possibly go down! Let me give you a tip, it didn’t go down to $230,000, it was never worth $301,000 to begin with!
Good idea — but from the wrong source
As mentioned, negative gearing is a great strategy and one almost all my clients use … but buying a property through a person or company who taught you the concept of negative gearing is destined for failure.
Worse still, many people who peddle this product call themselves ‘buyer’s agents’, making you think they are acting for you. They are not. I am a true buyer’s agent and I take exception to these charlatans. I don’t have any affiliations with developers, accountants, financial planners, anyone in fact, when I recommend a property, I simply choose the best one for the client. And isn’t it remarkable that it is never a property sourced from one of these pretenders. They are not property experts and they will never make you wealthy. In fact, you’d be hard pressed just trying to avoid a loss over a 7–10 year period.
In the industry they are also called ‘two tier marketing’ (or multi-tier) companies. After recommending you a property development, these people often recommend the solicitor, the mortgage broker and the accountants – all of them on the take. I don’t want to get into the legality of these scams (although I do think many of them skirt the law on a daily basis), because in the end, it is your money. You are entitled to lose it any way you want to. If you are going to buy one of these rip offs regardless, at least save yourself $30 and don’t buy my book. (Apologies if you’ve paid for it already.)
But I know you’re not reading my book to lose money. You haven’t forgotten Warren Buffett’s first rule yet have you?
Rule No. 1: Don’t lose money. Rule No. 2: Don’t forget Rule No. 1.
Unlike the poor suckers attending the seminars who seem to be ready to give their life savings to the first person to walk into the room in a Hugo Boss suit, I train my client investors to be:
• Interested (yet sceptical)
• Motivated (yet patient)
• Difficult to impress (not easy to impress)
• Keen to learn (but careful to decide) and
• Experienced!
These are the characteristics that you need to start to develop. In fact, scepticism, patience (and discipline), difficult to impress and careful to decide will lead to experience, and this after all is your end goal.
Gavin McPherson is the chief executive of <a href="https://www.oasisproperty.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Oasis Property Group</a>. His book, 'Value Investing in Property - What would Warren Buffet do if he was buying property in Australia?', takes aim at the get rich quick property experts and explains instead the sturdy path to wealth through value investing in property.
</body></html>

gmcpherson-YBEWnRLxLK

Negative gearing can be useful but beware spruikers: Gavin McPherson

<html><body>
ME Bank has continued the trend of lenders cutting fixed-rate home loans lowering its one and five year fixed-rates by 10 basis points today.
The reduced rates are available to eligible super funds and unions. 
The super members home loan (SMHL) standard home Lloan fixed one-year rate now drops from 5.19% p.a. (comparison rate 5.61% p.a.) to 5.09% p.a. (comparison rate 5.60% p.a.), and the fixed five-year rate now drops from 5.59% p.a. (comparison rate 5.64% p.a. to 5.49% p.a. (comparison rate 5.59% p.a.).   
 
ME Bank has also reduced the one-year fixed rate and five-year fixed rates on the SMHL ultimate offset account and SMHL interest only investment loans. 
Yesterday Property Observer reported that borrowers will be able to access a <a href="/news">one-year fixed-rate of 4.54%</a> and a three-year fixed-rate of 4.69% through mortgage brokers that operate under NAB’s Advantedge Financial Services platform.
Around a third of borrowers are choosing a fixed-rate product according to May loan approval figures from Mortgage Choice.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/06/mebankjune19one.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/mebankjune19onethumb.gif"></a>
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

ME Bank cuts one and five-year fixed-rate home loans

<html><body>
Property Observer recently reported that the Australian Tax Office will write to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/tax/ato-to-write-to-110000-rental-property-owners-over-incorrect-rent-deductions/2013061262175" target="_blank">110,000 property investors</a> over concerns they may have claimed rental property deductions they were not entitled to claim.
The ATO now has sophisticated data-mining tools that pick up inconsistencies in tax returns compared with previous years.
With around two-thirds of property investors negatively gearing their rental properties, knowing what you can and cannot claim is vital.
These are four rental property deductions that are not allowed:
<ol>
<li>Acquisition and disposal costs of the property</li>
<li>Expenses not actually incurred by you, such as water or electricity charges borne by your tenants</li>
<li>Expenses that are not related to the rental of a property, such as expenses connected to your own use of a holiday home that you rent out for part of the year</li>
<li>Borrowing expenses or interest on the portion of the loan you use for private purposes like buying a new car.</li>
</ol>
For tips on what you can claim as rental property deductions against your taxable income <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/tax/seven-rental-property-deductions-property-investors-are-allowed-to-claim-to-reduce-their-tax-bill/2013061762279" target="_blank">click here.</a>
<ul></ul>
This advice is sourced from the ATO. It is of a general nature only and does not constitute financial advice. Investors should seek qualified professional financial and tax advice when completing their tax returns.
</body></html>

Four rental property deductions property investors are not allowed to claim to reduce their tax bill

<html><body>
St.George Bank takes on average 15.5 days to pass on RBA cash rate cuts while taking just four days to raise rates, new research by Credit Suisse has found.
NAB and Westpac are the most prompt at passing on rate cuts – taking just eight days.
The figures are based on responsiveness of lenders to changes in the RBA cash rate for interest rate decisions dating from 2008 to 2013.
On average, Credit Suisse found that lenders are more than twice as quick to pass on a rate increase than a rate decrease.
They take three to five days on average to respond to a rate increase with the Commonwealth Bank being the fastest at 3.7 days and NAB’s Homeside being the slowest at 5.3 days.
In contrast, they take nine to 11 days to pass on a rate decrease.
ANZ takes the longest of the big four banks to pass on rate cuts - at just over 10 days, but also the longest on raising its mortgage rates following a cash rate rise. This result is skewed by the bank’s policy since January 2012 of making ‘independent ‘interest rate announcements on the second Friday of every month with a gap of 10 days or more between RBA announcements and ANZ decisions in some months.
 <img alt="credit_suisse_report" height="293" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/credit_suisse_report.jpg">Credit Suisse analysts Jarrod Martin and James Ellis say delaying a rate cut pass-through “incrementally increases net interest income in the relevant operating period”.
By delaying passing on rate cuts the big four banks, which have around 85% of the mortgage market, earn around $12 million a day from borrowers who have variable loans, Canberra-based think tank The Australian Institute calculated last year.
The latest data suggests big banks are taking less time to pass on cash rate increases while still taking as long to cut their mortgage rates when the cash rate falls.
<a href="/news">In October last year</a> the Economic Record, published the Economic Society of Australia reported that the major banks take 6.8 days to lift mortgage rates when the RBA lifts the cash rate and 10.6 days to pass on rate cuts.
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St.George the slowest at passing on RBA rate cuts: Credit Suisse report

<html><body>
NSW property buyers paid $4.39 billion in stamp duties in 2012-2013, which was down on the anticipated $4.46 billion revenue for the 2012 to 2013 budget.
But stamp duty on residential transfers in 2012-2013 were about 18.4% higher than in 2011-2012.
<img alt="stampdutyjune18one" height="290" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/stampdutyjune18one.jpg">
And stamp duty receipts are expected to jump this budget financial year to $4.96 billion,  reflecting positive indicators which could see  20.5% boost in residential transfer duties.
Overall stamp duty paid on transfer of all property is forecast to increase at an average annual rate of 9.1% over the next four years.
"Transfer duty is a volatile douce of revenue, with annual movements exceeding 25% not uncommon," the budget papers noted.
Transfer duty includes duty on residential sales, and small and large commercial transaction, including the sale of ports.
It raises about 20% of total state government tax revenue.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

NSW property buyers paid $4.39 billion in stamp duty over 2012-2013 financial year

<html><body>
NSW property investors paid $2.39 billion in land tax during the 2012-2013 year.
But this was less, after low valuation growth, than the anticipated $2.55 billion forecast.
"The downward revision to the 2012-13 estimate reflects lower than forecast increases in land values for the 2013 land tax year," the budget papers said.
The current budget anticipates land tax to total $2.52 billion.
The average anticipated growth per annum between 2013 and 2017 is given as 5.7%.
Land tax raises about 11% of the total state government tax revenue.
The NSW lmd tax threshold was $406,000.
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NSW property investors paid $2.39 billion in land tax over 2012-2013 financial year

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Borrowers will be able to access a one-year fixed-rate of 4.54% and a three-year fixed-rate of 4.69% through mortgage brokers that operate under NAB’s Advantedge Financial Services platform.
Since 2009, NAB has owned three of the largest mortgage broking business in Australia – PLAN, FAST and Choice under  the umbrella of Advantedge business.
The new rates, among the lowest in the market, are available exclusively through the Advantedge’s home brand fixed rate product suite under PLAN Lending, FASTLend and ChoiceLend and are effective from today, reports Australian Broker Online.
It continues a trend of lenders cutting fixed rates as demand for the product soars to nearly one in three borrowers, according to Mortgage Choice May data.
Today, <a href="/news">Westpac will cut its two and three-year fixed-rate home loan rates</a> below 5% for package home loan customers.
Last week <a href="/news">HSBC cut its two-year fixed rates for new home loans to 4.59%</a> and its three and five-year fixed rates to 4.79% and 5.09%.
Advantedge has reduced its standard fixed rates on one, three, four and five-year fixed rate terms, with the lowest available rate from 4.54% on a one-year loan (reduced by 0.10 percentage points) and from 4.69% on a three-year loan (reduced by 0.15 percentage points).
The group offers a four-year fixed rate loan at 5.06% and has cut its  five-year fixed-rate term by a further 10 basis points to 5.12%.
“Advantedge is committed to offering fixed rate products available exclusively through the broker channel, which provides brokers with the opportunity to offer their customers some of the most competitive rates in the market,” Brett Halliwell, general manager of Advantedge distribution.
 Advantedge product offerings through brokers:
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="154">
Fixed rate term
</td>
<td width="154">
Rate Change (p.a.)
</td>
<td width="154">
Full Doc Standard (p.a.)
</td>
<td width="154">
Discounted Rate (p.a.)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="154">
1 year
</td>
<td width="154">
-0.10%
</td>
<td width="154">
4.64%
</td>
<td width="154">
4.54%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="154">
2 year
</td>
<td width="154">
No Change
</td>
<td width="154">
5.07%
</td>
<td width="154">
4.69%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="154">
3 year
</td>
<td width="154">
-0.15%
</td>
<td width="154">
4.84%
</td>
<td width="154">
4.69%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="154">
4 year
</td>
<td width="154">
-0.10%
</td>
<td width="154">
5.16%
</td>
<td width="154">
5.06%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="154">
5 year
</td>
<td width="154">
-0.10%
</td>
<td width="154">
5.22%
</td>
<td width="154">
5.12%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
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Mortgage brokers to offer borrowers fixed rates from 4.54% through NAB’s Advantedge offering

<html><body>
In the last five years since the GFC borrowers would have been better off taking out a HomeSide home loan than a mortgage through one of big four banks, a new lender index has found.
HomeSide is NAB’s home loan product offering sold solely via mortgage brokers.
HomeSide currently has an advertised variable rate of 6.16% and three-year fixed-rate of 4.99%.
It ranks first on the new Australian Lenders' Index compiled by mortgage broker 1300HomeLoan.
The index currently ranks six lenders: Commonwealth Bank, NAB, Westpac, ANZ, Homeside (a division of NAB), and St George Bank (a division of Westpac).
The current rankings as of June 2013 are:
<ol>
<li style="line-height: 16.363636016845703px;">Homeside - NAB subsidiary</li>
<li style="line-height: 16.363636016845703px;">National Australia Bank</li>
<li style="line-height: 16.363636016845703px;">ANZ</li>
<li style="line-height: 16.363636016845703px;">Commonwealth Bank</li>
<li style="line-height: 16.363636016845703px;">St George</li>
<li style="line-height: 16.363636016845703px;">Westpac</li>
</ol>
The index measures the interest rate performance of Australia's major lenders in the residential home loan market, across a range of industry metrics over a five year period dating back to March 2008.
Metrics include the average size of lender interest rate spread to RBA cash rate and the number of movements in line with the RBA cash rate.
It found that HomeSide has been providing consistently the best rates over the past five years with NAB ranking second and Westpac at the bottom of the list.
A Homeside customer could save $31,980 over the life of their loan relative to the worst performing lender in the index – Westpac.
This is based on a borrower taking out a $300,000 home loan with a standard variable professional pack interest with a relatively high 30% deposit.
"NAB's Homeside is currently delivering the best variable home loan products among the major lenders," says 1300HomeLoan managing director John Kolenda. 
"The Australian Lenders' Index has also found that Homeside has been providing consistently the best rates over the past five years," he says.
A full break-down of the index methodology can be found at <a href="https://www.australianlendersindex.com.au" target="_blank">www.australianlendersindex.com.au.</a>
</body></html>

NAB’s mortgage broker product HomeSide beats big four banks as best post-GFC offering: new index

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Property Observer recently reported that the Australian Tax Office will write to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/tax/ato-to-write-to-110000-rental-property-owners-over-incorrect-rent-deductions/2013061262175" target="_blank">110,000 property investors</a> over concerns they may have claimed rental property deductions they were not entitled to claim.
The ATO now has sophisticated data-mining tools that pick up inconsistencies in tax returns compared with previous years,
With around two-thirds of property investors negatively gearing their rental properties, knowing what you can claim is vital.
These are seven allowable rental property deductions:
1. Claim straightaway for interests on loans
Some expenses may be immediately deductible in the income year in which they are incurred. For example, you may be able to claim an immediate deduction for interest on a loan used to purchase a rental property, purchase land to build a rental property, purchase a depreciating asset for the property - such as an air conditioner; or to finance renovations or home improvements, like a deck.
2. Claim straightaway for depreciating assets 
Deductions can be claimed in the income year in which they are incurred for the decline in value of some types of depreciating assets in residential rental properties - for example, curtains, blinds, dishwashers, refrigerators, stoves, television sets and hot water systems. However, construction costs are not depreciating assets
 3. Claim straightaway for costs to repair and maintain your rental property
You can claim a deduction for the costs that you pay to repair and maintain your rental property. For example, replacing part of the guttering or windows damaged in a storm; replacing part of a fence damaged by a falling tree branch; or repairing an electrical appliance.
4. Claim straightaway for tenancy costs
Tenancy costs such as the preparation of a lease agreement, or costs associated with evicting a tenant are also immediately deductible expenses.
5. Claim deductions over a number of years for assets that are part of the property
You can claim some deductions over a number of years, including the cost of depreciating assets, structural improvements and most borrowing costs. Assets that are part of the property such as stoves, refrigerators, air-conditioning and hot water systems can be claimed over a number of years as a 'decline in value' deduction.
6. Claim deductions over a number of years for assets on construction costs
 You may also be able to claim over a number of years the cost of building, construction and structural improvements made by you or a previous owner as a capital works deduction, for example adding a room or constructing a retaining wall or fence.
7. Claim deductions over a number of years on stamp duty and other fees
Another example of expenses that need to be claimed over a number of years is borrowing costs such as stamp duty charged on a mortgage, loan establishment fees and title search fees charged by the lender. If these amounts are less than $100 in total they can be deducted immediately. Otherwise, they are generally deductible over five years or over the term of the loan, whichever is less.
This advice is sourced from the ATO. It is of a general nature only and does not constitute financial advice. Investors should seek qualified professional financial and tax advice when completing their tax returns.
</body></html>

Seven rental property deductions property investors are allowed to claim to reduce their tax bill

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Westpac will from Tuesday (June 18) cut its two and three-year fixed-rate home loan rates below 5% for package home loan customers.
The bank will cut both rates by 10 basis points to 4.99% for new borrowings under its premier advantage package offering.
The bank <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/westpac-lead-the-big-banks-below-5-on-nfixed-home-loans/2013020659208">briefly flirted with a 4.99% interest </a>rate for its two-year fixed rate home loan from February 7 to March 19.  
<table cellpadding="0" border="0"><tbody><tr>
<td>
 
<table cellpadding="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Term
</td>
<td>
Previous Rate (Stand Alone) %
</td>
<td>
New Rate (Stand Alone) %
</td>
<td>
New Rate (Premier Advantage Package) %
</td>
<td>
Change %
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
1 year
</td>
<td>
5.44
</td>
<td>
5.44
</td>
<td>
5.24
</td>
<td>
-
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2 year
</td>
<td>
5.29
</td>
<td>
5.19
</td>
<td>
4.99
</td>
<td>
-0.10
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
3 year
</td>
<td>
5.29
</td>
<td>
5.19
</td>
<td>
4.99
</td>
<td>
-0.10
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</td>
</tr></tbody></table>
It follows a host of lenders recently cutting their fixed-rate home loans with demand for the product rising to one in three borrowers, according to the May mortgage approval figures from Mortgage Choice.
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Today HSBC</a> cut its two-year fixed-rate home loan to 4.59% for a limited time and its three-year fixed rate home loan to 4.79%.
Official ABS figures show a fifth of borrowers fixed their home loan rate in April.
</body></html>

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