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?

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>
Mortgage Choice and Smartline mortgage brokers will be able to offer their clients home loan products from Credit Union Australia (CUA) from March 1 following the lender’s decision to return to the third-party distribution market. 
CUA quit the broker space in mid-2008 in the wake of the GFC due to the increasing costs of sourcing mortgage funding. 
Before the GFC, the CUA was an active player in the broker space, writing about 30% of its mortgages via this distribution channel. 
Darrin Northey, CUA’s group general manager for distribution, says the credit union had been looking to re-engage with the broker network for some time. 
He believes the move will help ensure its home loans are even more widely available to customers and available in the same space as products from the major banks. 
“Given around one in four homebuyers seeks out a home loan via a broker, CUA’s re-entry into the network means we will be expanding the reach of our products to a greater potential audience,” he says. 
“We have been planning our re-entry into the broker network for some time and are confident that now is the right time, with the right commercial terms, for us to make that move. 
CUA was one of the few lenders to leave their standard variable rate unchanged in February after the ANZ’s rate rise sparked <a target="_blank" href="/news">most lenders to raise their rates outside of the RBA cycle</a>. 
CUA currently offers a standard variable rate of 6.72%, which is 0.59% lower than the 7.31% offered by NAB, the cheapest of the big four banks.
In its 2011 annual results, CUA revealed it had total assets under management of $9 billion, up $860 million since June last year.
 
 
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

CUA to offer home loans via Mortgage Choice and Smartline brokers

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The proportion of people that feel satisfied when they refinance their mortgage has picked up recently but is still tracking well below satisfaction levels before the GFC, according to research compiled by the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA).
In September 2011, two months before the RBA introduced the first of its two rate cuts in November and December, research by MFAA shows that just under two-thirds (65%) of those who refinanced their mortgage were satisfied with the outcome.
This was up on the 53% satisfaction rating in May 2011 but well below the high of just under 80% who said they were satisfied in November 2008 – a period when the RBA was cutting rates by as much as 1% a month as the financial crisis deepened.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/naylor.gif"><img src="/images/stories/naylorthumb.gif"></a>
The proportion of people that feel satisfied when they refinance their mortgage has picked up recently but is still tracking well below satisfaction levels before the GFC, according to research compiled by the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA).
In September 2011, two months before the RBA introduced the first of its two rate cuts in November and December, research by MFAA shows that just under two-thirds (65%) of those who refinanced their mortgage were satisfied with the outcome.
This was up on the 53% satisfaction rating in May 2011 but well below the high of just under 80% who said they were satisfied in November 2008 – a period when the RBA was cutting rates by as much as 1% a month as the financial crisis deepened. 
However, since then the percentage of borrowers satisfied with their refinancing decision has fallen steadily.
MFAA chief executive Phil Naylor says if one looks beyond the timeline of the chart to 2004, the percentage of borrowers satisfied was close to 90%.
According to Naylor, one of the reasons for this decline would be that there were more lenders on the market between 2004 and 2007.
“Non-bank lenders were still in the market and there were genuine choices as were you could go to refinance,” he says.
Naylor says the golden rule of refinancing is “you must be better off”.
For more expert tips on refinancing your mortgage download Property Observer’s free ebook: <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-12-tips-for-refinancing-your-mortgage" target="_blank">12 tips for refinancing your mortgage</a>.
 
 
 
 
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More borrowers refinancing, but they’re not happy about it: MFAA

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Kevin Rudd’s housing initiative – the first-home saver account (FHSA) incentive – is gaining traction among first-home buyers, despite the abandonment of the scheme by the Commonwealth and ANZ banks.
The scheme, which was a major election initiative of the incoming Rudd government in 2007, now has 33,000 account holders, according to the latest figures from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority.
During the first nine months of 2011, the scheme attracted more than 7,400 new account holders.
As of September 2011, there were 33,000 FHSA accounts, up 87% since March 2010. There’s an average $7600 in each account, for a combined total of $251 million.
But the tally is unlikely to ever reach the scheme’s target of 700,000 first-home savers. It was envisaged for 2012.
The take-up of the savings scheme was clouded by the first-home owner boost scheme, which ran from October 2008 to the end of 2009 and encouraged first-home buyers to purchase a home sooner rather than save.
The increase has come despite the Commonwealth Bank, the nation's largest home lender, dumping the scheme in August, and the ANZ ceasing to take any new savings accounts in October last year.
There are 16 financial institutions offering the accounts, mostly credit unions. The CBA and ANZ were the only two of the big four to take up the initiative, leaving first-home buyers to go to only the ME Bank and AMP Bank.
The credit unions offering the accounts include Teachers Credit, Hume Building Society, Credit Union SA and the Big Sky Credit Union.
The scheme aims to help first-time buyers save for a deposit for their first homes.  Under the FHSA, the government contributes 17% on the first $5,500 of individual contributions made each year. Account holders are required to keep savings in the FHSA for four financial years before they can use the funds to buy a home.
The government amended the scheme last May to allow savings in an account to be paid into an approved mortgage after the end of a minimum four-year qualifying period, rather than requiring the money to be paid into a superannuation account.
Under the original policy, if the account holder bought a home before the end of that four-year period, the balance of their account was required to be transferred into the borrower’s superannuation fund so that it remained in a concessionally taxed environment.
In April 2008 the then prime minister conceded the scheme’s design was "complex".
Responding to submissions to a Treasury inquiry that argued the accounts were complex, Rudd said: "We don't pretend to get everything right on the first chop.”
"We're going to see what the public's got to say through these submissions and we'll finalise the design."
When the much-vaunted first home saver account schemes open in October 2008, the consumer group Choice noted the CBA was offering a return below the cash rate.
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Kevin Rudd’s first-home saver account initiative gaining traction, despite banks’ exit 

<html><body>
Australian banks must resist the temptation of lowering credit standards or seeking out unfamiliar market to grow their lending books, APRA chairman John Laker has warned.
Delivering a speech to the Senate Standing Committee on Economics in Canberra this week, Laker says the challenge for banks is “coming to terms with ‘life in the slow lane’”.
“The Australian economy is expected to grow at around its trend pace over the next couple of years.
“However, if the current cautious approach of households and businesses towards taking on additional debt persists, authorised deposit-taking institutions are very likely to be denied the strong balance sheet growth that supported a sustained period of profit increases before the crisis.
“In these circumstances, boards and management may be tempted to chase unrealistic expectations for returns on equity by assuming more risk — through lowering credit standards or seeking new and unfamiliar markets where they may have little comparative advantage — or by aggressive cost-cutting that may weaken risk management capacities.
“These temptations must be resisted in favour of more measured strategic ambitions,” he says.
Laker’s comments come as the major banks highlighted rising wholesale funding costs and lower margins on mortgages.
In his speech, Laker highlighted three factors – the improvement in the US economy; a soft landing for the Chinese economy; and strong growth and the actions of the European Central Bank– that have lifted sentiment and improved conditions in global bank funding markets and allowed all the larger Australian banks to step up bond issuance.
 
 
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Banks must not take risks to achieve growth: APRA chairman

<html><body>
Administrators of collapsed mortgage broker Refund Home Loans are expected to sign a contract in the next few days to sell the business to State Home Loans.

A letter sent to franchisees by the administrator and seen by Broker News states that an offer has been received from State Home Loans.

Under the conditions of the sale, as many franchisees "as possible" are required to continue to operate under the existing franchise agreement, but the new owner is not liable to for any debts to owed to franchisees including lender commissions or any breaches of franchise agreements by Refund prior to the sale.

As part of the agreement, the franchisees’ loan book will be transferred from Choice Aggregation Services to an unnamed aggregator.

ASIC information shows State Home Loans received a credit licence in January 2011. 

Refund Home Loans collapsed in October last year.
 
 
 
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Refund Home Loans to sell to State Home Loans

<html><body>
I think it is fair to assume that for many borrowers, gone are the days when a 20-year mortgage is kept for the full term without some kind of alternation or refinancing taking place. 
A lot can happen over the life of a loan – in the last 20 years for instance changes have occurred including market reform, fluctuating interest rates, changing regulations, the emergence of new lenders and both the tightening and weakening of lending criteria, to name just a few. 
Thus, for many borrowers, the environment in which their mortgage was first acquired no longer exists or is vastly different, and it is likely that the original loan product obtained may not be appropriate nor the most cost-effective option for current conditions and personal circumstances. 
It is for this reason that it can be incredibly valuable for borrowers to establish an ongoing, working relationship with a mortgage broker, similar to that which may be enjoyed with a financial advisor or other professional consultant. 
By keeping in touch with a trusted mortgage expert borrowers can position themselves to ensure that they remain abreast of developments in the home loans market, and can act on fortuitous opportunities, such as to refinance or expand a portfolio, as they arise. 
I have seen many borrowers discount or even disregard the value that working to maintain such a relationship with a broker can achieve for them.  As a result these people will only have contact with their mortgage consultant periodically when their broker contacts them to make sure all is well. 
It is true that most professional brokers, if they are doing their job properly, will certainly be keeping an eye on their clients’ situations and those who are proactive will let their clients know about new opportunities to refinance or add value. 
However, if these interactions were not being initiated on the part of the broker, I am inclined to suspect that many borrowers would sit on their current mortgage without periodically investigating the newly available options – and potentially miss out on valuable cost savings as a result. 
In my experience, borrowers who maintain a working relationship with their mortgage brokers are at a big advantage, particularly as to do so doesn’t necessarily require a great deal of time.  While yes, it is reasonable to expect that your broker contacts you when attractive opportunities arise, don’t discount the value in taking steps to keep yourself front of mind for the broker so that you are the first client contacted when, for example, lenders release new packages, regulations change, or lending criteria alters in your favour. 
Often this requires only a coffee or lunch every now and then to catch up with your mortgage broker and have a chat about general market conditions and happenings, as well as your personal objectives and plans. 
The information that can be gained from such meetings is often invaluable, as you might find yourself privy to your broker’s concerns and insights into the current mortgage market – which could lead to further opportunities to invest or expand your portfolio. 
In addition, with more of an idea as to your property intentions and what you are comfortable with, your broker will be better placed to evaluate new mortgage options on your behalf. 
As a natural by-product of your effort and hospitality, you may just find that a working relationship with your broker is formed, whereby he or she is naturally more inclined to look out for your interests and alert you to valuable new opportunities as (or even before) they arise – putting you well ahead of other players and potentially saving you precious funds that can be directed to paying off your mortgage more quickly. 
There is no doubt that the home loans market can be a complex place to navigate, particularly for those property buyers who have not had a great deal of experience.  Dedicating some time to developing a relationship with a trusted mortgage broker can help you to make sure that you have an experienced professional watching out for your best interests – ensuring you make valuable savings where possible and have the most effective mortgage package available.
Charles Tarbey is chairman and owner of <a href="https://www.century21.com.au/" target="_blank">Century 21.</a> 
 
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ctarbey-W47GL9jwxa

Maximise your relationship with your mortgage broker

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Strong population growth, interest rates remaining at historically low level, “fierce competition between lenders” and low unemployment are some of the tailwinds that could prolong the recovery in the mortgage lending and housing market in 2012, according to Mortgage Choice CEO Michael Russell.
“Over the course of the calendar year, we’d like to see the market continue to rebound and there are reasonably strong tailwinds to suggest it just may,” Russell said following the release of “solid” interim results to December.
Mortgage Choice reported a 16.7% increase in loan approvals over the six-month period from $4.8 billion to $5.6 billion, with the mortgage broking franchise’s share of the home loan market rising from 4.1% to 4.5% over the six-month period, its highest level since 2006.
“The good news was the rebound in housing finance [over this reporting period] with December a particurlarly strong month with the highest value of commitments in two years,” says Russell.
“This auger well for housing finance market and all participants within it.”
However, he also noted a number of headwinds that could curtail the recovery, including the unpredictably created in the minds of consumers by the major banks moving rates outside of the RBA (“the new normal”), funding costs impacting lenders, the continued uncertainty in Europe, ongoing housing undersupply issues and consumers continuing to deleverage their debt and save more.
Despite the increased competition in lending Russell said attempts by the federal government to create a “fifth pillar” (through measures such as the ban on exit fees) outside of the big four banks had failed, with the smaller non-bank lenders and credit unions still struggling to penetrate the market.
The big four banks accounted for 60% of all loans approved by Mortgage Choice over the six-month period, unchanged since previous periods, with ANZ and the Commonwealth Bank accounting for 43% or more than two out of every Mortgage Choice loan approved.
Including big four bank subsidiaries Bankwest and St George, the major banks’ share of Mortgage Choice approvals stands at 76%.
Russell says non-banks and credit unions are struggling with higher funding costs than the major banks though many of them continue to offer cheaper rates then the major banks.
“It may be an issue of perceived flight to quality,” he says.
Taking a look at the bottom line, Mortgage Choice reported profits of $6.4 million for the six months to December 31, down 26% on the $8.8 million recorded in the previous six-month period to June 30 2011.
The drop in profit was attributed to higher operating expenses and lower-than-expected revenue from comparison website helpmechoose.com.au. The website made a $1 million loss for the six-month period.
Russell says the group has put in the necessary measures to remedy the results being achieved through the online venture and expects it to become profitable when full-year results are reported in mid-2012.
The group’s total loan book written by brokers in its franchise network and through aggregation arm LoanKit was up 5.6% to $43.5 billion.
Mortgage Choice grew the number of brokers in Loankit by 20% to 234 over the six-month period, with the business recording monthly settlements in excess of $100 million.
The group has 372 franchises (up from 354 a year ago), with the biggest proportion in NSW (134).
Settlements per loan consultant increased from 28 to 32.
Mortgage Choice brokers earned a collective $68 million in commission payments for originating loans, unchanged from the same six-month period in 2010.
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Economic tailwinds could prolong mortgage lending recovery: Mortgage Choice 

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Nearly one in two (46%) home owners who entered the property market less than two years ago is looking to refinance their mortgage, according to LJ Hooker Finance.
Recent home owners are more than twice as eager then the market as whole – 22% of the more than 1,000 active property participants polled by Galaxy Research on behalf of LJ Hooker Finance said they were looking to refinance their home loan in the near future.
The survey was carried out in September 2011, before the interest rate cuts of November and December and independent rate increases announced by banks this month.
Financial products comparison website RateCity.com.au recorded a 50% increase in home loan traffic in the first two weeks in February compared with the whole month of January, indicating that the appetite for refinancing might have risen even higher than levels recorded by LJ Hooker Finance in the latter half of 2011.
LJ Hooker CEO Janusz Hooker says the RBA’s decision to hold the cash rate in February should encourage consumers to review their financial situation and plan for the year ahead.
"After the 2011 interest rate cuts, home owners are closely watching the market to see what will happen next. Our research has shown that new home owners are concerned about interest rates and are very much aware that a spike in the cost of living could affect their home loan repayments,” says Hooker.
Of those planning to refinance their home loans, 20% cite interest rates as their primary concern, with a further 17% need to refinance to consolidate their debts.
The survey indicates that homeowners are concerned about the rising cost of living with almost half (42%) of those surveyed claimed they were living within their means but felt that an unexpected large bill would put pressure on their finances. "Although Australians are taking steps to ensure that they are meeting their financial commitments, new home owners are clearly feeling increased pressure to stay on top of bills and mortgage payments," says Hooker. Not all home owners are considering refinancing due to money worries.
Almost one-third (32%) of those looking to refinance were hoping to purchase a second, or investment, property, while a further 14% believe there are better home deals available.
Paul Ryan, CEO of non-bank lender Intouch Finance, says he is growing frustrated at the “spin” being put out by the major banks who continue to “cry poor” while “enjoying record profits”.
“Ultimately it’s up to the consumer to hold the banks accountable.  In the last two weeks we’ve seen an increase in rates coupled with the announcement of major job losses.  I want consumers to know that there are other options and smaller lenders who are offering cheaper rates and make service an absolute priority of their business,” says Ryan. 
Intouch Finance offers a standard variable rate of 6.7%, which is 61 basis points below that of NAB’s 7.31% standard variable rate, the lowest of the big four banks and 76 basis points lower than Westpac, which has the highest standard variable rate of the big four. 
Ryan estimates that on a $300,000 loan over 30 years, an Intouch Finance borrower would be saving $153.60 per month or $55,000 over the life of the loan compared with the Westpac customer and $122.92 per month or $44,0000 over the life of the loan compared with a NAB customer. 
“Don’t fall for the big four crying poor ” says Ryan.  “Get on the phone, get some quotes and then call your bank to find out what it’s prepared to do to keep your business.  If the answer’s nothing, then maybe it really is time to make a change.”
To find out all you need to know about refinancing your mortgage, sign up for Property Observer’s free webinar hosted by Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia chief executive Phil Naylor tomorrow at 12.30pm: <a href="https://propertyobserver.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=24bd0766a834290948593f5aa&amp;id=c30855319a&amp;e=a6b9e3b424" target="_blank">The Do's and Don’ts of Refinancing Your Existing Home Loan ... and How to Avoid Unnecessary Hurdles</a>
{module What do you intend to do given the current interest rate fluctuations?}
 
{module Have you changed lenders in the last six years?}
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One in two new home owners looking to refinance: LJ Hooker

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The decision by the major banks and some of the smaller banks to raise interest rates independently of the RBA is encouraging borrowers to consider refinancing with a non-bank lender, says One Big Switch founder Lachlan Harris.
Harris tells Property Observer there had been a “really, really strong reaction” to the rate rises, with borrowers “genuinely interested in smaller banks and non-bank lenders”.
“A few months ago it was all about the major banks, now the reaction is they want alternative lenders,” he says.
An ongoing poll by Property Observer has found that nearly 83% of borrowers are interested in the option of refinancing their mortgage with a different lender.
One Big Switch is currently in discussion with several other non-bank lenders, which are keen to join the campaign. One Big Switch encourages mortgage holders to consider refinancing.
To date Resimac, FirstMac, Mortgage Ezy, Mortgage Point and IMB Building Society have all participated in the program. About 1,600 out of the 40,000 borrowers who signed up have refinanced through one of these lenders. Harris says the campaign will not be relaunched but those who signed up and who have not refinanced will be given the opportunity of participating in new lender offers. “We are constantly in discussion with lenders interested in providing group discounts,” he says.
“We are always on the lookout for any lender who will offer a discount.”
Lachlan says the non-bank sector can match offers from the major banks.
“I genuinely believe Australia has a vibrant non-bank lending sector…it’s an incredible part of the market,” he says.
To learn more about refinancing, sign up for the free Property Observer refinancing webinar tomorrow at 12.30.
{module What do you intend to do given the current interest rate fluctuations?}
 
{module Have you changed lenders in the last six years?}
 
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Rate rises encourage borrowers to consider non-bank lenders: One Big Switch’s Lachlan Harris

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Bendigo &amp; Adelaide Bank has blamed rising funding costs for a 67% slump in net profits for the six months to the end of December 2011.
The bank, which will start charging variable rate borrowers an extra 0.15% in interest from tomorrow – the highest increase of all lenders to date – posted interim profits of $57.9 million, down from $173.9 million in the previous corresponding period.
Bendigo &amp; Adelaide Bank managing director Mike Hirst says the “cost of all funding channels have increased markedly over the past six months, including retail term deposits, senior unsecured and secured debt markets”.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/bendigoadelaidec.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/bendigoadelaidethumb.gif"></a>
The net interest margin declined two basis points compared with the previous corresponding period, and fell six basis points when compared to the half year ending June 30, 2011.
“The contraction in margin, coupled with slowing credit growth and market sentiment moving investors away from higher margin wealth and equities products, has resulted in flat earnings,” Hirst says.
Over the past six months the bank has grown its mortgage book by 7.6% compared with the industry average of 7.3%.
Its total loan book stands at $46.8 billion, with 65% of this residential lending. First-home owners make up just under one in 10 mortgage holders.
During the year, the bank acquired the Bank of Cyprus (Australia), which has a loan book of $1.4 billion and 14 branches, eight of which are in Victoria.
Hirst says the economic outlook for the remaining six months of the financial year is difficult, with significant market volatility and revenue challenges facing all banks. Funding costs, changing asset mix and demand for credit are all currently problematic.
"While the future impact of these factors is difficult to predict, there is much about our business that should provide comfort to our investors," Hirst says.
"We continue to generate customer satisfaction and brand advocacy measures that are materially higher than the major banks and we are committed to ensuring we have the capacity to meet the needs of our customers.”
 
 
 
 
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