Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

Joel Robinson

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a> has wasted little time reshaping one of South Brisbane's most significant undeveloped apartment sites after acquiring the property earlier this year.&nbsp;

McNab has lodged plans to scrap an existing approval for two 30-storey towers and instead deliver a single 28-storey residential building, preserving part of the site for a future development opportunity.

The proposal, lodged over <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-peel-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">64 Peel Street and 9 Cordelia Street</a>, is for a residential-led mixed-use development comprising 124 apartments above a landscaped podium, alongside a boundary realignment that preserves part of the land for a future residential project.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="743bf564-3f8f-45fc-b8d3-bbf18f5b628f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20Peel%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=EhCxGrVn_VFH3qTbKnI4WppGwaMnOn0t" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, the development will deliver 119 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments across 23 residential levels. A five-level podium will accommodate 135 car spaces, while the ground floor will include a 66 sqm commercial tenancy, an activated residential lobby with work-from-home spaces, and a publicly accessible landscaped plaza linking Cordelia and Peel streets.&nbsp;

Communal amenities will span Level 6 and the rooftop, including indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, kitchen and dining areas, lawn space, sauna, steam room and yoga facilities.

The application also proposes a boundary realignment to create a standalone 1,290 sqm development lot while retaining an adjacent parcel for future redevelopment, allowing the balance of the site to contribute additional housing over time.

Hayball said the architecture has been shaped by the site's elevated corner position at the intersection of Peel and Cordelia streets and Brisbane's subtropical climate.

The design incorporates generous landscaped setbacks, a masonry podium wrapped with planting, large north-facing balconies, and a slender tower profile intended to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and long-range views. The rooftop has been conceived as a wellness-focused retreat overlooking Brisbane, with amenities positioned to capture views towards Mount Coot-tha and the CBD.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f99e84-6ad8-4a87-82d1-869685b754d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20tower%20perspective.png?VersionId=Gw0IuJaSAlk.tvGBxInhZOcQAdIB..2b" />

The planning submission positions the proposal as a response to both changing market conditions and Brisbane's Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning reforms.

McNab acquired the site after the previous approval was granted, with the existing scheme no longer reflecting current residential market demands, economic conditions, construction challenges, construction efficiencies or the quality of development outcome now being pursued, the planning report noted.

McNab continues to expand its residential development pipeline across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The developer recently launched The Tannery in West End, securing more than 60 per cent of apartments before the project's public release. It is also delivering Elements Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Lucia Highgate Hill, an eight-apartment boutique development overlooking the Brisbane River.

McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower

A steeply sloping Bellevue Hill site is set to accommodate a new mid-rise apartment development, with plans lodged for 20 homes that respond to the site's dramatic topography.

The proposal for the consolidated land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/138a-140-bellevue-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">138A-140 Bellevue Road</a> has been designed by Sydney architecture practice Common Office, which has used the site’s substantial fall to distribute the building’s scale and unlock 20 apartments without presenting the full height to the street.&nbsp;

“The unique design strategy leverages the site’s substantial topographical fall to facilitate increased density, presenting a seven-storey profile to Bellevue Road while rising to 10 storeys at the rear,” Common Office said in its architectural design report.

The apartment mix spans one, two, three- and four-bedroom residences. Four two-bedroom apartments are designated as affordable housing, while the plans also include two adaptable dwellings. The mix is majority three-beds, with the typical three-bed apartment offering around 144 sqm internally, with balconies of around 15 sqm.

The affordable housing component represents 15 per cent of the residential floor area and allows the project to access additional height and floor space under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions. The site also falls within the inner area of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy because it is within 400 metres walking distance of Double Bay Town Centre.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1230d0f-3bfa-4a11-abaf-0928c66ef345" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da.png?VersionId=dZeMK3P.OutGjN8ycjsxm8uNsj_QFWQv" />

Common Office has arranged the building around a masonry podium and a lighter upper volume, drawing on two recurring elements of Bellevue Hill’s established architecture: sandstone bases and the vertical proportions of local Inter-war Art Deco apartment buildings.

“The proposal is governed by a holistic design language that reconciles the solid horizontal masonry of the neighbourhood’s podiums with the elegant verticality of its Art Deco heritage,” the architect said.

“The building maintains a consistent rhythmic logic utilising deep recesses and a sophisticated material transition to break down the 10-storey scale into a series of articulated, human-scale volumes.”

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0147f503-1af1-4d51-97fb-c2f1cba63a9d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20bldg.png?VersionId=GoW7q3NlK67OpnePXhk7zvklrlKb72Qc" />

Large-format sandstone tiles will define the lower levels, establishing a robust base that negotiates the change in elevation from Bellevue Road. Above, red-tinted precast concrete frames, recessed balconies, anodised aluminium screens and expanded metal details will create a more vertically expressed façade. Integrated planter beds will introduce greenery across balcony edges and recessed sections of the building.

The elongated northern façade has been divided into three recessed vertical masses to reduce its perceived length. Triangular window elements and metal privacy screens reference the geometry of nearby Art Deco buildings while controlling overlooking toward surrounding homes. The southern elevation will incorporate further privacy screening, landscaped edges and deep balconies to maintain light and ventilation.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8679cf1-18bc-4447-8a0f-0052b94ab83c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da%20rooftop.png?VersionId=5SQqQqRFf76rvE2p1TbxJSweMN70AIbc" />

Private and communal landscaping is distributed throughout the development. A landscaped garden apartment is positioned within the lower portion of the site, while a communal terrace on Level 5 will include a central timber deck, barbecue facilities, resident planting plots and areas for outdoor dining and informal gatherings.

Common Office described the terrace as an elevated sanctuary designed to capture district views and sunlight. Its planting strategy incorporates endemic species associated with the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, extending the landscape vertically through the building and providing habitat for local flora and fauna.

A second communal outdoor area is proposed at roof level, with built-in seating, paved gathering areas and perimeter planting.

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction. Positive Investment Enterprise is delivering the 16-apartment Kew Palm House on Birriga Road, while Chanine Developments is also under construction at Florian, a 36-apartment project on Banksia Road.

&nbsp;

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction.

First Look: Apartment development pitched for Bellevue Hill, Double Bay fringe

South Brisbane's apartment pipeline continues to build momentum, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK Property Group</a> lodging plans for a 161-apartment tower on Montague Road as developers accelerate investment across the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

The proposal for 176–186 Montague Road would replace an existing office building with a 20-storey residential tower designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, adding to a growing pipeline of high-density projects reshaping one of Brisbane's fastest-evolving inner-city precincts.

The project has been conceived as a "living building", featuring a flowing tower form, extensive vertical landscaping, and generous communal spaces that respond to the evolving Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

TRK Property Group Development Director Matt Kan said the project reflected the confidence developers have in South Brisbane's long-term future.

"South Brisbane is entering an incredibly exciting period, and we see Montague Road sitting right at the heart of that evolution," Kan said.

"With the former Visy site directly opposite us and significant investment planned throughout the broader Kurilpa precinct, there is a real sense of momentum around this part of the city and what it will become over the coming years.

"For TRK, this is an opportunity to be part of that next chapter and deliver a project that responds to where the precinct is heading, while contributing to the continued evolution of Brisbane's river edge."

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="590fe1ad-f892-4446-a679-80e33a16d029" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20tower%20facade.png?VersionId=uOJStrcKpyHFcPE1w6_9SMAFzVMCcZll" />

The scheme includes a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, incorporating multi-purpose rooms in selected residences to provide additional flexibility for home offices or expanded living areas. The proposed mix comprises 15 one-bedroom, 13 one-bedroom plus MPR, 73 two-bedroom, 26 two-bedroom plus MPR, 30 three-bedroom, and four four-bedroom apartments.

Rather than adopting a conventional rectilinear tower, COX Architecture has developed a sculpted form inspired by the movement of the Brisbane River.

"The proposal has been designed by COX Architecture as a 'living building' that responds to the site's riverine setting, floodplain history and evolving urban context within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct," the planning report states.

"The architectural form draws from the fluid nature of the Brisbane River, with a curved and undulating tower form that creates a varied architectural edge and avoids a conventional rectilinear tower expression."

The podium has also been designed as an architectural feature rather than a conventional parking structure, with cascading planting, screening and natural-toned materials softening its appearance. Resident parking is elevated above ground level to address the site's flood constraints, while habitable apartments sit above flood planning levels. Upper-level communal facilities are designed to accommodate shelter-in-place arrangements during major flood events.

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01fa15d0-90df-46c7-9555-7941fc45373c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20podium.png?VersionId=mHyua.w1pHGBt9qEdWzrlsv.leztUCwO" />

Communal amenity is a major focus of the proposal. Around 1,815 sqm of shared resident space is proposed across the ground floor, level 19 and the rooftop, including co-working areas, indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, wellness facilities, dining and gathering areas, lawn spaces, a rooftop pool and spa, and extensive landscaping. At street level, a landscaped forecourt and approximately 345 sqm of publicly accessible open space along Montague Road are intended to improve the pedestrian experience while activating the building's frontage.

The development will provide 163 car spaces, including 152 resident bays and 11 visitor spaces, together with 144 bicycle spaces incorporating resident storage, visitor parking, bicycle maintenance facilities and e-mobility charging infrastructure.

The site sits within one of Brisbane's fastest-changing inner-city precincts, less than two kilometres from the CBD and within easy reach of South Bank, West End, the Queensland Cultural Centre and extensive public transport connections. The Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning framework is encouraging higher-density residential development to help meet Brisbane's housing supply targets while supporting walkable, transit-oriented neighbourhoods.

TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans

Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Brisbane's next apartment price record? Pikos unveils Skye's exclusive penthouse collection

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?

Prominent New Zealand apartment and hotel operator, <a href="/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>, is offering up a prime investment opportunity for Australians to purchase off the plan in one of the world’s most popular ski destinations.

They recently took to market Mountain Oak Queenstown Apartments, in the growing precinct of Remarkables Park in Frankton, near the airport and at the foot of The Remarkables - the mountain range the locals like to call “The Remarks”.&nbsp;

Sydney investors have shown interest in the one, two and three-bedroom apartments that secure high-season occupancy six months over the year, primarily over summer and winter months.

They average 90 per cent occupancy across their portfolio over January, February, March, August, November and December, while shoulder season months of April, July, September and October are still occupied 70 per cent of the time, with the growing appeal of Queenstown becoming not just a hotspot for the snow, but a lifestyle destination.

Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Safari’s Safari Hotels arm can also manage the holiday letting for an investor, from the listing on holiday accommodation websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com to the cleaning and maintenance of the investment. They’ve been in the short stay management business for 15 years and offer 24/7 support for investors, an important convenience benefit for any overseas investor

Another major drawcard for Australians is that New Zealand doesn’t have a stamp duty policy - so the entry price of NZ$639,000 (AU$586,000), is all that is payable on completion.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Safari is starting construction of the 141 apartments in Q2 this year, with a two-year build estimated to complete in mid-to-late 2027.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczFpFAb7WuA6f4f9TtKWcqXyNwR8qqtakWv352ERkpqNlP3KwIo8YKxw67jZNHfpjEGIZGv5MQTbnvLZwNt8iu9IVdOrswOjCvBZ4zhSoOOLrpt6etVEZTN1gkBho0r_R72zdHNA?key=yq3daOanqHSb88QFd8jGYKdb" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />​

The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;

Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.

With its strategic location near Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, as well as key retail and dining precincts such as Market Street, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and Remarkables Market, Mountain Oak offers a strong proposition for investors seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after locations.&nbsp;

Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.

Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

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While much of Australia is set to experience a flat to declining non residential building sector, recent industry forecasts show that Tasmania is set for an upswing in demand for non-residential work due to its unique set of factors.
“Demographics play a big part in this,” says Peter Barda, executive director of Australian Construction Industry Forum.
“An ageing population creates an increased need for aged-care facilities and health services. While the sharp uptick in demand for these assets will moderate when compared with the past decade, it will remain at relatively high levels.”
<img height="286" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/08/acif-chart-aug-14-one.jpg" alt="acif-chart-aug-14-one">
The Tasmanian engineering construction sector also gets good news from the forecasts. Drivers in the local demographic are seeing, over time, an increase in the level of engineering work that may make interstate migration an option for some players.
Residential builders won’t be so pleased, though. ‘’A mild recovery is forecast, once we get through the next period of flat to declining demand,’’ Barda says.
The chart shows the relatively strong forecast for Tasmania’s non-residential sector compared to the outlook for the rest of Australia.
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staylor-63KgDrKwoY

Changing demographics creating opportunities for Tasmanian builders: ACIF

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Offering easy access to South Melbourne from all directions, Park Street is one of those streets that almost everyone who lives south of the Yarra has travelled along.
Linking Kingsway and St Kilda Road and close to The Shrine, Park Street takes a lot of through traffic to and from Domain Road and it’s on one of Melbourne’s major tram routes. It’s also the address of the hit TV series, The Block.
‘’Those looking to locate their business close to the city without paying CBD rates will find Park Street as good as it gets. Perhaps the best way to describe it is high profile, yet low key,’’ says Chris Curtain, a director at estate agents Lemon Baxter.
“This year has been notable for the good quality properties that have come onto the market in the South Melbourne/St Kilda Road precinct and 39 Park Street is another example that continues this trend.”
The four level office building of 1888 square metres on a 1078 square metre site is expected to fetch between $6.5 million and $7 million when it sells via an expressions of interest on September 5, says associate Nick Bade.
Built in the early 1980s and progressively refurbished over the years it has a vaulted foyer, ground floor office/showroom, three office levels plus parking for 27 cars at the rear.
Typical office floor plates are about 560 square metres except for the ground floor. The car park is accessed from Kings Place via a single driveway with a steel security boom gate.
The building’s mixed use zoning creates rental options, Curtain says. It has been successful in encouraging development of surrounding multi-level offices and multi-dwelling residential apartments.
Curtain says that out of the net lettable area of 1888 square metres the owner/occupier can access 887 square metres now. He says other tenancies with refurbished spaces and good natural light contribute around $384,330 per annum.
‘’With interest rates so low it would be cheaper to own than rent,” he says of the building which is ‘’the only one of its size currently being offered for sale in South Melbourne’’.
It has 18 air-conditioning units on the roof and a fully automated smoke detection system and traditional fire hose and real system.
Other comparable and recent South Melbourne office building sales:
<ul>
<li>
228 Albert Road South Melbourne, bought by a private investor in May, for $6.2 million
</li>
<li>
35 Market Street, South Melbourne, bought by a private investor in January, for $3.75 million
</li>
<li>
102 Dodds Street, bought by an owner-occupier last October for $8.87 million.
</li>
</ul>
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Park Street, South Melbourne mixed use offering

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Sydney’s residential rental market has opened up slightly with increases in the vacancy rate for the inner and middle markets, according to data from the Real Estate Institute of NSW.
The July 2013 vacancy rate across the Sydney metropolitan area rose 0.1% to 2.2%.
The inner suburbs (0-10km from CBD) vacancy rates was up 0.3% to 2.5%, the middle suburbs (10-25km from CBD) up 0.1% to 2.0% and the outer suburbs (more than 25km from CBD) was down 0.2% at 1.9%.
“The inner suburbs of Sydney are seeing the highest vacancy rates since January 2006, reflecting an increase in stock entering the market place,” says REINSW president Christian Payne.
“While this is positive for those seeking rental accommodation, more support is needed for those seeking to invest in the property market.”
Across the state, the Hunter region is up 0.4% to 3.3%, led by a 0.2% increase in Newcastle to 2.4%.
The Illawarra vacancy rate rose 0.5% to 2.8% and Wollongong is up 0.7% to 3.2% - a level last seen in August last year.
Coffs Harbour remains the easiest place to find rental accommodation – it’s steady at 3.7%. Levels also stayed the same on the Mid-North Coast, Murrumbidgee, Riverina and Orana at 2.9%, 2.4%, 3.0% and 1.3%.
The vacancy rate in Albury slipped 0.4% to 1.4% and the Central Coast dropped 0.6% to 2.6%.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

July vacancy rate across Sydney rises 0.1% to 2.2%: REINSW

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The Real Estate Institute of Western Australia reported recently that housing affordability has improved over the last year and that median rents have climbed by 12%.

So, for many people renting a question they are asking themselves is: “would we be better off to buy?”
Current data shows that in Perth, the median purchase price for first-home buyers is around $420,000 while metropolitan rents are around $470 per week.
Not everyone is in a position to borrow and meet loan repayments, but for those singles and couples who can afford around $580 a week at current variable interest rates, a mortgage of $373,000 will buy a very suitable unit, villa or house with its own land.
(In this example I am assuming a deposit of $20,000 and eligibility for the $7,000 first-home owners grant, so the purchase price would be $400,000.
However, there are many cheaper properties throughout WA including the metropolitan area. Some house and land packages are accessible at $300,000 or less and fixed rates can be more affordable than variable rates).
In other words, by paying around $100 more each week on a mortgage as opposed to paying rent, many tenants could transition to home ownership if that suited them and banks approved the loan.
Naturally, the bigger the deposit the smaller the loan and it’s important to keep in mind that renters don’t pay council rates, annual utility charges, building insurance and maintenance which home owners do. Buyers need to factor in about $50 per week to cover this.
The real cost of renting is not the fortnightly payments, but the loss in savings compared to accumulating equity in a home.
There are also good financial reasons to support ownership, but two key factors illustrate its benefit.
First, home ownership can be a stepping stone to increased wealth and long term financial security. Property is highly regarded by financial institutions as security for borrowing to fund a property investment, a business venture or a holiday.
It’s more difficult to borrow against other assets.
Second, home ownership opens up lifestyle opportunities. With your own place you can design and mature the garden, paint and decorate as you wish, have pets (with some strata exceptions) and generally create a home with the liberty and security that can bring.
Households which experience financial difficulty in retirement years are more likely to be living in rental properties, so investing in a home can be a better way to secure your retirement circumstances.
The early decisions you make around real estate can affect your long term outlook, but it’s strongly advisable that you discuss your plans with competent financial advisers, banks and lenders before making a decision and then approaching an agent.
David Airey is president of the <a href="https://reiwa.com.au/home/default.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Real Estate Institute of Western Australia.</a> This article was originally published on <a href="https://reiwa.com.au/Faq/Pages/Feature.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">reiwa.com</a>.
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dairey-MVZf5ZguQC

Is it always better to buy than rent?

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Dating back to 1922, the Baden Road, Coogee beachside apartment building is the setting for the new Australian drama series on Channel 10, Wonderland.
For those wondering where it is, the dress circle block is at the northern end of the beach high above Dunningham Reserve.
The five flats (pictured below) are owned by investors, the Newton family of Double Bay. They secured the block in two acquistions topped off by the 195 square metre penthouse in 1989 for $400,000.
<img alt="wonderland-aug-13-one" src="/images/stories/2013/08/wonderland-aug-13-one.jpg" width="470" height="277">
The other four apartments spread over the lower two floors are 95 square metres. They were bought for a $149,000 total in 1980 from the Whiteman family who kept the top floor flat until its 1989 sale.
It had been with the Whiteman family since 1941 having been previously owed by the Coogee garage proprietor William McLeod who bought the property in 1922.
Wonderland dubbed a romantic comedy drama series will be broadcast on Network Ten from 21 August.
The series, co-created by Jo Porter and Sarah Walker, focuses on four different couples as they navigate love, life and friendships.
<img alt="wonderlandinsider-512x288" src="/images/stories/2013/08/wonderlandinsider-512x288.jpg" width="470" height="264">
It was filmed on location in Coogee with the 22-part series is being produced by FremantleMedia Australia
Michael Idato from Fairfax Media wrote that Network Ten hopes the series will tap into Offspring's established audience.
Brooke Satchwell was cast as lawyer Grace Barnes. Michael Dorman plays bachelor Tom Wilcox. Jessica Tovey was cast as Dani Varvaris, who works in PR.
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Network 10's Wonderland, the Coogee apartment block on the doorstep of fame

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I recently read a headline attributed to a US market research group that in part announced, “that virtually every home buyer did the majority of their research on the internet” – I think that most of us would agree that is also our experience in Australia.
While traditional media still has a role to play, buyers are clearly relying upon property related web sites and the internet to help find their new home.
Other research (from a number of sources including the Newspaper Association of America and AC Neilsen) clearly shows that the most trusted information on the web comes from company branded web sites.
These sites rank much higher and a more trusted than commercial portals, in fact company branded sites are only out ranked by personal recommendation, consumer on-line forums and editorial comment while at the bottom of the survey we find text advertising on mobile phones as the least trusted.
Potential buyers are now clearly investing time to ‘self-educate’ themselves about real estate market conditions.
It is vital that any engagement with the market remains a two-way process and that as a professional service we enhance the decision-marking journey via our own and project web sites.
To do so requires an ongoing effort to understand how the Internet is being used.
Recently, I had the opportunity of taking a detailed look at some interesting trends drawn from almost seven million site visits across a number of major projects.
None of us are strangers to the value of the internet in helping to market projects and so I think it is valuable to recount some of the key trends that I came across.
From the outset I think it is now realistic to see our marketing operating on a 24/7 basis – office hours and open for inspections aside in ‘virtual’ terms the market never sleeps, it might nap but never really switches off.
Web traffic to the real estate sites that I refer to ran across a full 24 hours, traffic was at its lowest point from around mid-night to seven am and after seven am traffic then ramped up to peak visit numbers around 10am daily. Then between 10am and 10pm – that’s a full 12 hours, activity was more or less constant.
One fact this clearly reinforces is that the impact of  smart phones and tablets as potential buyers access the web anywhere, from being on a bus to being in bed and now at almost any time.
It is also worth noting that the early bird traffic, that is between mid-night and 7am was about 30% of the peak time of 10am, and so that’s not a small number of potential buyers.
Another stand out trend, which I have to freely admit, is a statistic I have seen quoted frequently, was that most web traffic was recorded on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, with Saturday and Sunday both low volume days.
Tuesday has long been seen as one of the best days for email marketing to your data base and that appears to be sound thinking, there’s lots of research to support this. With weekends a prime time to visit properties it also comes as no surprise that Friday’s are popular – it’s common sense.
Another key measure of activity was that first impressions on a web site appear to be critical as the drop off between visits to a site’s home page to the next most read page was frequently well over 70%.
That is 70% of site visitors did not bother or feel interested enough to go past the home page of a site, either they had not interest in the sites details or they may not have been attracted to what they read or saw on the home page. It’s another reason the home page should always be fresh.
While I am the first to admit these are just a few points relating to a complex and ongoing subject, each is worth noting and serves to my mind, to reinforce the need to keep an eye on how we use the internet as a key marketing tool.
Peter Chittenden is managing director for residential of <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.colliers.com.au/Colliers%20Corporate/Residential.aspx">Colliers International.</a>
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pchittenden-eLqUUC8TWW

Real estate marketing on the web requires an ongoing effort to engage the potential buyer

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Sydney eastern suburb rental growth is slowing, according to the latest rental report of BradfieldCleary which looks at rental trends in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
The latest analysis covers 50 properties re-let during June and July this year.
Some 25 showed an increase, seven remained steady, but 18 rents decreased.
"The overall increase of 0.8% shows the slowest growth since we started tracking the figures two years ago," Bob Guth from BradfieldCleary noted.
Below is set out a summary of the tables we have published previously.
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 301px;">
November 2011
</td>
<td style="width: 228px;">
+13.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 301px;">
May 2012
</td>
<td style="width: 228px;">
+7.75%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 301px;">
July 2012
</td>
<td style="width: 228px;">
+2.66%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 301px;">
October 2012
</td>
<td style="width: 228px;">
+4.14%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 301px;">
February 2013
</td>
<td style="width: 228px;">
+2.75%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 301px;">
July 2013
</td>
<td style="width: 228px;">
+0.8%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
"It is easy to see the rate of growth in rents has slowed but looking behind the figures the reality is tenants are becoming more and more sophisticated and seeking a higher quality of abode.
"Fifteen year old carpet and thirty year old kitchens are not popular and nor is a scruffy old bathroom and peeling paint.
"Perhaps it’s time to renovate," Guth advised his landlords.
<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" style="width: 470px;">
<colgroup><col span="4" width="64"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="32">
<td width="64" height="52" rowspan="2">PROPERTY</td>
<td width="64">PREVIOUS</td>
<td width="64">NEW</td>
<td width="64" rowspan="2">% DIFFERENCE</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td width="64" height="20">RENT</td>
<td width="64">RENT</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Stephen Street, Paddington</td>
<td>$300</td>
<td>$300</td>
<td>0.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Hopewell Street, Paddington</td>
<td>$325</td>
<td>$335</td>
<td>3.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Ramsgate Avenue, Bondi</td>
<td>$260</td>
<td>$360</td>
<td>38.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">St Neots Avenue, Potts Point</td>
<td>$350</td>
<td>$375</td>
<td>7.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Manning Road, Double Bay</td>
<td>$415</td>
<td>$395</td>
<td>-4.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="80">
<td width="64" height="80">Darling Point Road, Darling Point</td>
<td>$420</td>
<td>$405</td>
<td>-3.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Bellevue Road, Bellevue Hill</td>
<td>$400</td>
<td>$420</td>
<td>5.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Botany Street, Bondi Junction</td>
<td>$380</td>
<td>$420</td>
<td>10.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Ramsgate Avenue, Bondi</td>
<td>$500</td>
<td>$430</td>
<td>-14.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Bellevue Road, Bellevue Hill</td>
<td>$400</td>
<td>$430</td>
<td>7.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Manion Avenue, Rose Bay</td>
<td>$480</td>
<td>$440</td>
<td>-8.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Ethel Street, Randwick</td>
<td>$410</td>
<td>$450</td>
<td>9.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Edgecliff Road, Woollahra</td>
<td>$420</td>
<td>$450</td>
<td>7.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Edgecliff Road, Woollahra</td>
<td>$430</td>
<td>$450</td>
<td>4.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Edgecliff Road, Woollahra</td>
<td>$440</td>
<td>$450</td>
<td>2.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Victoria Road, Chatswood</td>
<td>$490</td>
<td>$480</td>
<td>-2.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Salisbury Road, Rose Bay</td>
<td>$520</td>
<td>$485</td>
<td>-6.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Hopetoun Street, Paddington</td>
<td>$460</td>
<td>$495</td>
<td>7.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Balfour Road, Rose Bay</td>
<td>$500</td>
<td>$495</td>
<td>-1.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Hastings Parade, Bondi Beach</td>
<td>$480</td>
<td>$500</td>
<td>4.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Bronte Road, Bondi Junction</td>
<td>$450</td>
<td>$515</td>
<td>14.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="96">
<td width="64" height="96">New South Head Road, Double Bay</td>
<td>$500</td>
<td>$540</td>
<td>8.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Bent Street, Paddington</td>
<td>$570</td>
<td>$550</td>
<td>-3.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="96">
<td width="64" height="96">New South Head Road, Double Bay</td>
<td>$550</td>
<td>$550</td>
<td>0.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Court Road, Double Bay</td>
<td>$550</td>
<td>$550</td>
<td>0.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Ethel Street, Randwick</td>
<td>$450</td>
<td>$550</td>
<td>22.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="80">
<td width="64" height="80">Darling Point Road, Darling Point</td>
<td>$595</td>
<td>$560</td>
<td>-5.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">William Street, Double Bay</td>
<td>$550</td>
<td>$595</td>
<td>8.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">The Avenue, Rose Bay</td>
<td>$495</td>
<td>$595</td>
<td>20.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Beresford Road, Rose Bay</td>
<td>$650</td>
<td>$600</td>
<td>-7.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="80">
<td width="64" height="80">Bennetts Grove Avenue, Paddington</td>
<td>$570</td>
<td>$605</td>
<td>6.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Macpherson Street, Bronte</td>
<td>$750</td>
<td>$660</td>
<td>-12.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Victoria Road, Bellevue Hill</td>
<td>$680</td>
<td>$660</td>
<td>-2.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="48">
<td width="64" height="48">Market Street, Sydney</td>
<td>$680</td>
<td>$680</td>
<td>0.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Paul Street, Bondi Junction</td>
<td>$670</td>
<td>$695</td>
<td>3.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="48">
<td width="64" height="48">Birrell Street, Bronte</td>
<td>$780</td>
<td>$695</td>
<td>-10.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="80">
<td width="64" height="80">Mclachlan Avenue, Rushcutters Bay</td>
<td>$700</td>
<td>$720</td>
<td>2.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Bowden Street, Woollahra</td>
<td>$750</td>
<td>$770</td>
<td>2.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Bellevue Road, Bellevue Hill</td>
<td>$800</td>
<td>$775</td>
<td>-3.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Beresford Road, Rose Bay</td>
<td>$750</td>
<td>$795</td>
<td>6.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Wolseley Road, Point Piper</td>
<td>$870</td>
<td>$800</td>
<td>-8.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Wallaroy Road, Woollahra</td>
<td>$810</td>
<td>$820</td>
<td>1.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Wiston Gardens, Double Bay</td>
<td>$850</td>
<td>$830</td>
<td>-2.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="48">
<td width="64" height="48">Edgecliff Road, Edgecliff</td>
<td>$995</td>
<td>$930</td>
<td>-6.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Cascade Street, Paddington</td>
<td>$920</td>
<td>$995</td>
<td>8.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="48">
<td width="64" height="48">Albert Street, Edgecliff</td>
<td>$1,000</td>
<td>$1,000</td>
<td>0.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Heeley Street, Paddington</td>
<td>$1,050</td>
<td>$1,050</td>
<td>0.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Blackwood Avenue, Clovelly</td>
<td>$1,030</td>
<td>$1,050</td>
<td>1.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="64">
<td width="64" height="64">Hopewell Street, Paddington</td>
<td>$1,149</td>
<td>$1,095</td>
<td>-4.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="48">
<td width="64" height="48">Evans Street, Bronte</td>
<td>$1,700</td>
<td>$1,700</td>
<td>0.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td colspan="2" height="20">OVERALL</td>
<td></td>
<td>0.80%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
 
Photo of eastern Sydney courtesy of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/photographerglen/">Glen Scarborough</a>/flickr.
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Landlords advised Sydney eastern suburbs rental increases weakening: BradfieldCleary

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As competition remains high for mortgage business, many lenders including some of the major banks are prepared to offer finance with just a 5% deposit.
A 95% loan-to-value ratio loan is primarily aimed at first-home buyers who have not been able to save up a bigger deposit but who want to get onto the property market sooner.
However eligibility for a high LVR loan is quite strict, writes McGrath Real Estate Agents chief executive John McGrath on Switzer.com.au.
Here’s the seven key things he suggests you consider beforehand:
<img height="38" width="30" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numberonejuly11.jpg" alt="numberonejuly11">
McGrath says that banks will require that you can “at a minimum” demonstrate a strong repayment history and will want to know what the purpose of the loan is. If it’s to purchase an investment property, they may only lend 90% of the value. 
<img height="35" width="30" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numbertwojuly11.jpg" alt="numbertwojuly11"> You need to calculate if you will be able to make more in capital gains (and possibly rental returns if it’s an investment property) by purchasing sooner and paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) than you would by waiting until you have saved up a 20% deposit. You must also factor in how much prices may rise in this time it takes to save a bigger deposit.
<img height="39" width="30" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numberthreejuly11.jpg" alt="numberthreejuly11"> Keep in mind that LMI will be much less if you are buying a $300,000 property versus a $600,000 even if you have only a 5% deposit in both scenarios. “Generally speaking, LMI is charged as a percentage of the purchase price,” says McGrath.
<img height="39" width="30" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numberfourjuly11.jpg" alt="numberfourjuly11"> Also keep in mind that LMI is not transferable so if you refinance with a new lender and don’t have a 20% equity position, you may have to pay it again. 
<img height="33" width="30" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numberfivejuly11.jpg" alt="numberfivejuly11"> Another risk, he says is that it may take longer to build up equity in your property or even be in a no equity position, which can make it harder to refinance or buy a second property. 
<img height="35" width="30" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numbersixjuly11.jpg" alt="numbersixjuly11"> Quoting advice from lan Hemmings, who heads up McGrath’s Oxygen Home Loans division, he says buyers should shop around if they are looking for a high LVR loan because the difference between lenders on LMI can be several thousands of dollars. 
<img height="36" width="30" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numbersevenjuly11.jpg" alt="numbersevenjuly11"> Lastly he suggests speaking to a mortgage broker who can help with all these questions and will know which lender charges the least LMI on a 95% loan. 
<ol></ol>
<ol></ol>
 
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The seven things to keep in mind when considering a 95% LVR: John McGrath

A classic federation home in Willoughby is due to go under the hammer with a $2.2 million plus price guide.

&nbsp;Located at 59 Sydney Street, the 1910 home has been renovated and extended but still retains original features including a wrap-around verandah, high ornate ceilings and rich timber floors.

The 834-square-metre property also includes four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a north facing entertaining patio.

It last sold in July 2002 for $1.28 million.

The median house price in <a href="/news">Willoughby</a> is $1,250,000, a 19.5% change in the past five years, according to RP Data.

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Classic federation Willoughby trophy home listing

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Commonwealth Bank chief executive Ian Narev says he doesn’t lose any sleep over concerns about a possible property bubble in Australia following record low interest rates.
He told a Sydney conference yesterday he doesn’t worry about the consequences of the Reserve Bank’s current policies but says lenders must be "very, very careful about just making hay when the sun shines" to avoid more loans going bad.
“I am absolutely confident that all direct and indirect consequences for the property market that may flow from a change in interest rates are absolutely thought through by the governor and his board,” Narev told the Aussie Home Loans three-day biannual sales conference in Sydney.
“I do not lose a moment’s sleep thinking about that. They think very carefully about a range of issues, they are absolutely aware of what effects different interest rate settings might have on the economy and I’ve got a lot of confidence that they... have a good perspective about that.
He says while people enjoy a lower interest rate environment the bank is aware of risks.
“It's always nice to pay lower interest rates than higher, but interest rates in an economy on a downward cycle are there for a reason.
"History will tell you that when the interest rate cycle starts to rise again… (banks must ensure) people on standard variable rates are going to be able to pay what they need to pay. So sometimes we're seen as the party poopers, but actually it's just that we need to be driving these things for the long term."
Narev says is often questioned by overseas investors on Australia's high house prices compared with incomes, but says banks here could weather double the level of unemployment and a 40% fall in prices.
Meanwhile the National Australia Bank has offered home owners <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/finance/nab-offers-%241000-cash-to-secure-new-borrowers/2013081264103">$1000 if they switch mortgages from rival banks</a> amid renewed aggressive competition between the banks.
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