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]

Joel Robinson

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

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

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

A proposal to redevelop one of North Sydney's ageing commercial buildings has taken another step forward, with plans for a 38-storey mixed-use tower adding momentum to the long-awaited transformation of the Alfred Street precinct.

Now on public exhibition through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority-led State Significant Development pathway, the proposal for 271-273 Alfred Street would replace an underutilised commercial building with 95 apartments, ground-floor retail, commercial space and affordable housing. The proposal was submitted by&nbsp;Tara Shore Pty Ltd, acting for the John Taylor Family Trust.

While the project will deliver much-needed housing on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, it also represents another piece of a broader precinct that has spent years in planning limbo.

<img alt="First look: New public domain vision underpins 95-apartment North Sydney tower on Alfred Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e1ce1b4-38df-48ab-992f-386814d86308" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Alfred%20St%20da%20podium.png?VersionId=sC_h6w.A9VEoB98qsqowPlIoz__sBZBt" />

Despite its proximity to both North Sydney Station and the Victoria Cross Metro, redevelopment of Alfred Street has progressed slowly over the past decade as broader planning controls, zoning and building heights remained unresolved. The introduction of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway has provided a new avenue for projects to progress, allowing rezoning and development assessment to occur concurrently and unlocking sites that have long been earmarked for renewal.

Designed by Office of Cortese &amp; Gilder, the proposal seeks to do more than replace an ageing office building. The architects have positioned the project as the first stage of a wider public domain vision that would improve pedestrian connectivity and create a more cohesive mixed-use precinct as neighbouring sites are redeveloped over time.

The proposal includes a widened Alfred Street setback, new street trees, landscaping and outdoor seating, along with a landscaped through-site pedestrian link connecting Alfred Street with Little Alfred Street. The connection is intended to become the first section of a future east-west pedestrian network extending across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: New public domain vision underpins 95-apartment North Sydney tower on Alfred Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ea39ac3-46ad-4562-b4a0-b862e91c2dda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Alfred%20St%20da%20site.png?VersionId=K7umCd21KpetEFuVfsPlnJKhUOsmTTdV" />

The mixed-use tower would comprise retail space at ground level, commercial uses on level two and apartments from level three upwards.

In total, the development would deliver 95 apartments, including nine one-bedroom, 28 two-bedroom, 56 three-bedroom and two four-bedroom residences. Twenty-one apartments, representing 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area, would be secured as affordable housing and managed by a registered community housing provider for at least 15 years.

Nine basement levels would provide 133 resident car spaces, seven motorcycle spaces and 111 bicycle spaces.

According to the Architecture and Urban Design Report, the public domain strategy is designed to transform what is currently an inward-facing commercial edge into a more active and connected pedestrian environment, creating a stronger relationship between the commercial core and surrounding residential neighbourhoods.

Office of Cortese &amp; Gilder has also prepared a broader public domain framework spanning neighbouring properties between 263 and 283 Alfred Street, arguing that a coordinated approach to redevelopment will deliver better public spaces, improved tower separation and a more connected streetscape as the precinct evolves.

The proposal comes at a time where North Sydney is slated for future residential growth. Commercial developer FiveX has residential plans for the neighbouring site at 275 Alfred Street. They've proposed a 39-storey mixed-use tower with 184 apartments, while Freecity was recently approved for nearly 300 apartments across a 51-storey building on Walker Street.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-freecity-gets-green-light-for-mixed-use-apartment-and-hotel-tower-in-north-sydney">First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-plans-39-storey-residential-tower-in-booming-north-sydney">First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower in booming North Sydney</a>

&nbsp;

Alfred Street the latest North Sydney pocket to be transformed by residential development

Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.

For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.

Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.

"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;

Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.

Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."

The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.

"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

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

<html><body>
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/30842.gif">
The number of properties available for rent in Victoria for the week ended August 5, according to RP Data. Of these, 13,857 were listed in the last month. There were 24,462 listings during the same week last year.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/24734.gif">
The number of properties available for rent in New South Wales for the week ended August 5, according to RP Data. Of these, 12,727 were listed in the last month. There were 21,948 listings during the same week last year.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/21787.gif">
The number of properties available for rent in Queensland for the week ended August 5, according to RP Data. Of these, 11,032 were listed in the last month. There were 24,575 listings during the same week last year.
<hr>
 
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/7144.gif">
The number of properties available for rent in Western Australia for the week ended August 5, according to RP Data. Of these, 3,870 were listed in the last month. There were 8,204 listings during the same week last year.
 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/7057.gif">
 
The number of properties available for rent in South Australia for the week ended August 5, according to RP Data. Of these, 3,403 were listed in the last month. There were 5,732 listings during the same week last year.
 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/2297.gif">
The number of properties available for rent in Tasmania for the week ended August 5, according to RP Data. Of these, 999 were listed in the last month. There were 1,591 listings during the same week last year.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/896.gif">
The number of properties available for rent in ACT for the week ended August 5, according to RP Data. Of these, 439 were listed in the last month. There were 462 listings during the same week last year.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/790.gif">
The number of properties available for rent in Northern Territory for the week ended August 5, according to RP Data. Of these, 499 were listed in the last month. There were 915 listings during the same week last year.
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Victoria's 30,842 homes for rent lead the nation: A state-by-state analysis: RP Data

<html><body>
The partial sale and lease back of David Jones’ flagship stores or developing the sites to include residential or commercial property would not add value for shareholders, according to UBS.
Investors and analysts have been analysising the options for David Jones’ three Melbourne and Sydney flagship stores given the recent takeover speculation.
David Jones has been mooted as a potential leveraged buyout candidate, with much of the value around its property portfolio.
The three flagship stores have a $462.5 million book value, but UBS says they could secure $666 million on-market.
UBS considered three options for the properties: develop the sites to add storeys above for residential use; a partial sale; and a partial lease.
The broker concluded that adding storeys above the Sydney store would only add $47 million value, or a mere 9¢ a share, the Australian Financial Review reported.
UBS said combining the two Sydney sites into the one store was unlikely to work, but could add up to 4.1% to David Jones’ earnings per share if it did.
The third option, to explore leasing unproductive space in the higher levels, was “unlikely to be economical given”, the broker said, due to required capital expenditure, low rental rates and potential for new tenants to cannibalise David Jones' retail operations.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

David Jones flagship stores have $666 million potential 

<html><body>
In spring we begin to see uplift in listings activity with more properties available for sale and subsequently an increase in auction activity. Spring also brings an improvement in the number of property sales, especially following winter, which is usually a slow period for the housing market.
Spring 2011 delivered a somewhat disappointing selling season, with sales volumes across the combined capital cities down by 3%; lower than they were in the spring of 2010 and with no noticeable improvement from volumes in autumn. The amount of stock available for sale during this period was continually increasing throughout the period to historic high levels, and home values were falling across each capital city market.
Although economic conditions are now not as strong as they were before the financial crisis, generally most indicators are stronger than compared with this time last year.
It is also important to analyse just how the economy is tracking compared with a longer-term average (10 years) so as to achieve a better understanding of the overall state of the economy compared with what may be considered “normal” based on the decade average.
While autumn represents the period when most property sales are made, spring is traditionally the season when more properties come on the market.
Overall, we’ve seen some positive movements for home values, with new stock being added to the market lower and each of the vendor metrics (selling time, vendor discounting and auction clearance rates) all showing an improvement.
Recent economic data also supports a period of stronger conditions with higher levels of consumer sentiment as well as an increase in housing finance commitments, lower standard-variable mortgage rates, and a greater rate of population growth and an improvement in retail trade.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/08/rpaug9.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/rpaug9thumb.gif"></a>
Further, given the poor performance of the housing market over the past year, any positive changes are generally moving from a very low base, albeit in the right direction.
Despite a more positive trend for many indicators compared with those of 2011, a comparison with the longer-term trend highlights that many of these indicators are moving off a low base. Additionally, significant challenges remain in the market including:
• The high stock levels;
• Transaction volumes which are below average;
• Lower growth in private sector housing credit;
• Lower levels of consumer sentiment;
• Lower numbers of owner occupier commitments for new loans;
• First-home buyer activity, which is well below average, and lower levels of full-time job creation.
These factors are likely to impact on the overall housing market performance coming in to this spring.
On the other hand, a number of measures are more positive than the 10-year average, and these are likely to be a positive for the housing market. These measures range from a lower number of new property listings entering the market and other measures such as inflation, which is well below average levels, below average standard variable mortgage rates, higher levels of annual population growth and a greater annual increase in retail trade.
Overall, the data indicates that generally the housing market is now in a stronger position than it was 12 months ago. Considering this, the spring selling season should be stronger this year than it was last year however, in comparison to recent years we would not expect the housing market to power along through spring in the manner that it has previously.
Cameron Kusher is senior research analyst at <a href="https://www,myrp.com.au" target="_blank">RP Data</a>.
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Spring selling season likely to be stronger this year than last, but don't expect it to power along: Cameron Kusher

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Owners of prime office space in the Sydney CBD should be in a better bargaining position from 2013, according to the latest global real estate report from Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL).
The prime Sydney CBD office market is forecast to transform from one favouring tenants in 2012 to a balanced market in 2013 and 2014, with both capital values and rents expected to rise by as much as 5% over the course of 2012.
This places Sydney in the middle range of performance forecasts for major CBD office markets – alongside London, Paris, Los Angeles, Mumbai and Frankfurt.
In the Asia-Pacific region, Beijing is set to be the strongest-performing prime office market over 2012, with a forecast 20%-plus rise in rental values and ma rise of between 10% and 20% capital growth.
Hong Kong and Singapore rental values are forecast to fall by as much as 20% over 2012.
In its Global Market Perspective Third Quarter 2012, JLL places Sydney in an upward cycle with both rents and capital values rising.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/08/jllaug15.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/08/jllaug15thumb.gif"></a>
The report makes passing reference to Perth, noting that the “commodities sectors continue to support robust rental growth in markets" such as San Francisco and the WA state capital.
Perth is also a market “showing healthy levels of corporate activity”, according to Jones Lang LaSalle.
The report says that economic uncertainty continues to affect investor sentiment across the globe, with deals taking longer to close.
It says the market remaining polarised with investors steering clear of risky assets, focusing instead on prime product in core markets like London, Paris and New York.
According to JLL, Sydney has performed modestly in relation to other prime capital city office markets, recording capital growth of 1.5% over the second quarter of 2012, matching the growth of regional competitors Tokyo and Shanghai, but well behind the top-performing CBD markets of Jakarta and Beijing, where capital values grew by between 9% and 11% over the quarter.
However, Sydney strongly outperformed CBD markets in Europe, which managed capital value growth of just 0.4% over the quarter, following the decline of 0.3% in the first quarter of the year.
Sydney is offering a prime yield of 6.9% and has a relatively high vacancy rate of 8.7%.
Comparative regional markets such as Singapore has a prime yield of 3.6% and a vacancy rate of 10.2%; Tokyo has a prime yield of 3.6% and a vacancy rate of 3.5% while Hong Kong has a prime yield of 3.1% and a vacancy rate of 3.4%.
The report notes that in contrast to many offshore markets, prime yields in Australia have not followed bond yields downwards.
“As a result the yield spread to bond rates is at record levels in most markets, providing a high measure of valuation support should bond yields revert to long term levels,” says Simon Storry, head of office investments Australia for JLL.
“With a global hunt for yield, Australian real estate assets are sharply differentiated on a valuation basis.  In addition, spreads between prime and secondary yields are generally wide, providing an incentive to owners and investors to refurbish and reposition assets,” he says.
Storry says that during the second quarter of 2012 a renewed cycle of financial market volatility saw leasing activity slow in Australia.
“Rents in many office, retail and industrial markets flatlined.
“In the Sydney CBD market, contraction by some financial market tenants was offset by migration into the CBD.
“Across office markets, as in the retail and industrial sectors, a slowdown in demand for space is largely offset by a limited construction pipeline. As a result, vacancy rates remain low and downside risk to rents is limited. In the longer term, continued growth will stimulate another construction cycle.”
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Sydney CBD office landlords to hold more power from 2013: Jones Lang LaSalle

<html><body>
In the past 12 months our property sector has been defined by the two-speed nature of the Australian economy, and this will continue to present challenges in the year ahead. 
The gap between the mining states of Queensland and Western Australia and the rest is not likely to shrink any time soon. Notwithstanding the disparity between the regions, the growth from the mining and resources sector will continue to stimulate the broader Australian economy, as evidenced by our national unemployment rate of 5.1%. 
Similarly, global economic conditions will continue to fluctuate. A spin-off from this international instability, however, is that Australia’s economic performance is comparatively strong, which should drive continued investment in our property market from overseas. 
Offshore investors have committed about $3.7 billion in Australian property markets in just the past six months, and local investors are also becoming more active, with pension funds looking to increase their allocations to commercial property. 
Investors will remain cautious, with forecasts suggesting the weight of capital chasing quality assets will lead to a further tightening of premium and A-grade yields by as much as 25 basis points in the next six months. The secondary-grade market is expected to continue to experience a softening of yields in the months ahead, as investors’ appetite for risk remains soft and owners place more assets on the market as funding pressures increase. 
Despite this, opportunistic buyers will continue to target underperforming assets in order to reposition and take advantage of the potential future upside. 
Foreign investment from sovereign wealth funds, pension funds and REITS, particularly from Asia, is forecast to remain high as investors chase secure yields of between 6.5% and 7.5% in Sydney, compared with 4% to 6% returns in Hong Kong, Singapore, London or New York. 
For the first half of the new financial year, we expect an increasing battle for core and core plus assets across all asset classes. 
Office markets across the board are performing relatively well, however the current weakness in the finance and insurance sector will continue to impact upon the performance of Sydney’s office leasing markets. As a result, below average absorption levels are expected to continue into the first half of 2013. 
A shot in the arm for the Sydney market is the recent pre-commitment of more than 120,000 square metres of space at the anticipated $6 billion Barangaroo redevelopment to anchor tenants Westpac, KPMG and Lend Lease, with Colliers International integral in these negotiations. This announcement will stimulate activity throughout the Sydney CBD and do wonders for the market. 
In the wider retail sphere, the going is tough. While household spending has been rising, expenditure in the traditional retail sector has been lagging other areas of consumption. 
With continued short-term pressure on the sustainability of occupancy costs, property owners will be focusing on tenancy mix and maintaining occupancy levels in their shopping centres, with growth in specialty rents limited. The stability of retail property, however, remains an attractive proposition for many investors as they look beyond the current challenges being experienced in the broader retail sector. 
The other well-documented concern for the retail sector is the rise of online shopping and, while this presents an ongoing challenge for the sector overall, it also has repercussions for other property sectors, particularly industrial. 
Global growth in container imports has driven logistics activities to the forefront of industrial real estate over the past decade and this will continue in the year ahead. 
In the next 12 months the Australian industrial market is likely to go through a phase of steady improvement, with signs of continuing strong leasing and investor demand for quality industrial space. A lack of available land and built products will continue to impact upon key industrial markets. 
Lending requirements for developers seeking to construct new residential projects will remain constrained, as they have since the global financial crisis, resulting in waning new supply levels declining since 2009. These factors have translated into tight vacancy rates, rising weekly rents for investment stock and stable median prices within Australia’s residential property market. 
However, the Australian residential market continues to perform strongly when compared to major global markets, and we believe persistent demand for residential dwellings will continue unabated due to positive net overseas migration levels and natural increase coupled with declining supply levels.
John Marasco is managing director of investment services at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.colliers.com.au/">Colliers International</a>
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jmarasco-X5TFWvtLxp

Australia's property markets to continue to attract overseas and local interest in 2012-13

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Tregear, in Sydney’s outer west, is the city’s suburb with the highest gross yield for houses at 7.1%.
Property Observer has listed the top 15 suburbs with the highest rental yields for houses in Sydney.
The list is dominated by western suburbs, and most have median prices in the $200,000s.
<a href="/news">Middleton Grange</a> had the highest median price at $407,400, with a rental yield of 6.3%.
With the highest yield, Tregear also had the lowest median price at $220,000.
<a href="/news">Blackett </a>had the second highest yields, followed by <a href="/news">Willmot </a>and <a href="/news">Lethbridge Park</a>.
According to the 2011 census, <a href="/news">Tregear </a>had a population of 3,916 and had 1,341 residences.
Managing director of Ben Price Estate Agents Ben Price says the area is made up of former housing commission properties.
“There were originally 12,000 Department of Housing homes in the area, clumped in one spot. Now more that 50% of those have been sold off. Existing tenants were offered the homes to buy and some have been sold on the private market,” Price says.
“That happened over the last couple of decades.”
RP Data lists the median price for the suburb at $220,000, but Price says that figure is probably a bit low.
“There’s not really much for $220,000. You might find something that needs a bit of work. Then you might have to spend $20,000 to get it up to a rentable condition. For that you’d get in the low $300s per week.”
Price recently sold a property on Aurora Drive to an investor for $285,000. The four-bedroom cladded home is leased at $350 a week.
He says it’s an attractive area for investors, with 50/50 divide between investors and home buyers.
“There’s not much development here. We run a vacancy rate of less than 1%. I think the returns will be there for a long time to come.”
<table width="299" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" align="left"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Suburb
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Median Price ($)
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Yield (%)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Tregear
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
220,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
7.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Blackett
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
229,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Willmot
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
225,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Lethbridge Park
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
227,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Whalan
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
245,750
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Emerton
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
250,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Shalvey
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
260,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Bidwill
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
265,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Middleton Grange
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
407,400
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Hebersham
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
279,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.2
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Dharruk
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
285,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.2
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Miller
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
312,500
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.2
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Spring Farm
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
375,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.2
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
North St Marys
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
282,500
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
6.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="121" valign="bottom" nowrap>
Cartwright
</td>
<td width="111" valign="bottom" nowrap>
305,000
</td>
<td width="67" valign="bottom" nowrap>
5.9
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
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awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Outer-western suburb of Tregear leads Sydney suburbs for house rental yields

<html><body>
The number of properties on the market in Western Australia has fallen over the June quarter, with could put price pressure on property there, according to the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia.
Sales numbers have increased, but new stock is not coming onto the market quickly.
“The volatility has gone, buyers are more confident and prices are stable. But if we don’t see the sold stock being replaced with new listings it may put price pressure on the limited stock that remains or increase demands on the building industry,” says REIWA’s David Airey.
Turnover for the months of April, May and June is up by 25% from the same period in 2011, with a projected 11,700 sales taking place in the quarter. In the March quarter it was at 11,600. The number of properties on the market dropped to 12,150 at the end of June and currently sits at around 11,000.
“This is well below the 14,300 properties we had on the market in March and sits below the equilibrium of around 12,000 listings, suggesting the market is swinging back to favour sellers,” Airey says.
The south-eastern Perth suburb of Canning Vale near Jandakot airport had the most sales for the quarter at 512. The median price increased 0.1% over the quarter to an annual median of $530,000.
He says the metropolitan Perth median house price is holding steady at $475,000. The figure is unchanged over the quarter and down 1% over the year. The median Perth unit price is at $324,500 down 3.1% from the March quarter and down 7.9% over the year.
House and unit sales in Perth are up around 5% for the quarter but Airey says this has been moderated by softer regional activity during this period, with house sales down an estimated 12% and the small multiresidential market down by 15%.
“In annual terms, house sales in Perth are up by 15% in 2011-12 when compared to 2010-11, but still remain some 15% below the 15 year average. Similarly, multi-residential sales are up 5% for the year but still 30% below the long term average due to weak investor activity.”
The number of sellers dropping their asking prices to get a sale has fallen by 13 percentage points on June last year, with 61% of sellers prepared to discount. The average reduction is 6.3%.
The time on market has also dropped by almost a week to an average of 73 days on market.
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
JUNE   Qtr 2012 (p)
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
MARCH Qtr 
2012
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
% Change
3 months
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
% Change
12 months
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Perth Median House Price
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$475,000
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$475,000
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
n.c.
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-1.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Regional WA Median House Price
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$360,000
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$375,000
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
-4.0%.
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-4.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Perth Median Unit Price
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$402,500
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$407,250
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
-1.2%
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-1.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Regional WA Median Unit Price
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$324,500
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$335,000
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
-3.1%
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-7.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Perth Median Land Price ***
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$250,000
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$245,000
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
+2.0%
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
+6.4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Regional WA Median Land Price
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$168,000
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$165,000
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
+1.8%
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-4.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Total Dwelling Sales - WA
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
11,700
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
11,600
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
+1%
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
+25%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Stock of Listings - Perth
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
12,150
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
14,300
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
-15%
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-30%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Average Selling Days – Perth
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
73 days
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
79 days
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
-6 days
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-6 days
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Perth Seller Sentiment 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Vendors Reducing Price
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
61%
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
65%
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
-4% pts
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-13%pts
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Listing &amp; Selling Price Variance
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-6.3%
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-6.4%
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
-0.1% pts
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-1.2% pts
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Perth Rental Vacancy Rate
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
1.9%
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
1.8%
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
+0.1% pts
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
-1.5% pts
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="168" valign="top">
Median Weekly Rent
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$430
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
$420
</td>
<td width="94" valign="top">
2.4%
</td>
<td width="85" valign="top">
+13.2%.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
In the Perth rental market the vacancy rate is below average at 1.9%. The median rent has grown by a $10 to $430 per week, an increase of just over 13% from 12 months ago.
The median rent is $440 per week for houses and $410 per week for units and apartments.
Median land prices are up $5,000 for the quarter to $250,000.
“Our preliminary data is showing a 25% lift in land sales, suggesting that prospective home builders are getting ready for their new home,” Airey says.
“Suburbs such as Baldivis, Butler and Byford on the outer edges of the metropolitan area saw the greatest number of land sales in the year to June quarter.”
</body></html>

Falling residential stock on market could push up dwelling prices in Western Australia: REIWA

<html><body>
Should I launch my own department store?
<div>
Are department stores dying? I’m thinking of setting up one – on a more boutique, and smaller, scale than Myer or DJs, of course.
Department stores – a retail institution that dates at least as far back as the mid-1800s – have been trying to reinvent themselves for years, with mixed results.
They followed shoppers from the city to suburban shopping centres – upsizing and downsizing as they went.
They are facing considerable disadvantages. There is a fine line between offering a broad assortment of products and being cluttered.
I don't think department stores serve as a good showroom. There's so much stuff in there and not enough editing to make shopping simple.
Not only do department stores sell a lot of merchandise, but they often sell the same kinds of merchandise – which makes it hard to stand out.
For the past 20 years the department store has been shrinking as a percentage of retail sales. Maybe Asia holds the answer.
Many department stores in Asia are organised by brand, and include "mini-stores" within a larger space. In China, Korea and Japan, department stores lease out space to brands in the store and act more like landlords. The brands put the labour on the floor.
In the days before the internet, department stores used to be the primary discovery place for consumers on the hunt for a new appliance or a new wardrobe.
Today mobile is everything. The killer app is mobile. People used to go to stores for information and research. Today all the information is already in their hands.
I personally believe that the shopping centre is the new department store with the individual stores acting as departments.
There is a place for department stores but reinvention is a necessity: Utilising all the channels favoured by customers without forgetting the oh-so-wished-for well-trained staff – and enough of them!
Debra Templar is one of Australia’s leading retail enthusiasts, keynote speakers and business coaches. She is a regular contributor to StartUp Smart Daily and Greenworld.
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.startupsmart.com.au/" target="_blank">StartupSmart</a>.
</div>
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dtemplar-59GRsk2iuo

Should you launch a department store in this retail climate?

<html><body>
British fashion giant Topshop is set for a new store at Highpoint Shopping Centre in early 2013. 
The Highpoint location is the second Melbourne store for the iconic British brand, with its other Melbourne outlet on the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/jam-factory-set-for-%2416-million-makeover-as-topshop-moves-in/2011081851210" target="_blank">Chapel Street strip in South Yarra. </a>
GPT Group announced the leasing deal in its half-year results presentation yesterday. 
“Topshop’s ability to deliver new, designer-inspired look to shelves within weeks of making their catwalk debut is something that will certainly strike a chord with our customers,” Matthew Faddy, head of asset management at GPT, says. 
The Topshop/Topman co-location store in South Yarra opened in December last year, and the brand’s first Sydney store<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/fashion-retailer-topshop-topman-to-open-in-sydneys-historic-gowings-building/2012062655281" target="_blank"> is set to open in October in the iconic Gowings building in the CBD</a> after a $1.85 million fit-out. 
Topshop is wholly owned by Phillip Green from the Arcadia Group and first existed in the basement of a Peter Robinson department store in 1964. 
The first stand-alone Topshop opened in 1974, and the brand has now expanded to a whopping 750-plus stores across 32 countries. 
The flagship store located in Oxford Circus, London, attracts more than 200,000 shoppers a week. 
Topman was created as a spin-off to cater for male customers and is run as a separate chain, although some stores are co-located, including South Yarra’s Topshop/Topman. 
It is an exciting time for Melbourne and Sydney residents, who previously had to purchase collections and outfits online. 
The online store topshop.com began in 2000 updating the clothes straight off American and British catwalks that have not yet landed in Australian stores. 
Topshop is not the only offshore brand to make its mark in Australia, with international brand ZARA recently opening its second Melbourne store on Bourke Street (the brand had an outlet in Chadstone), along with its Pitt Street mall, Sydney, outlet. 
Fashion giants H&amp;M and Forever 21 are also rumoured to be scouting locations Down Under.
</body></html>

ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Topshop set for second Melbourne store as fast fashion retailers expand Down Under

<html><body>
There has been much debate recently about the health of the retail sector.
Needing to constantly have everything "on sale" has certainly shrunk everyone's margins. But overall, sales volumes have languished.
Yet, maybe there is some light at the end of the tunnel. The ABS just reported that retail sales increased by 1% during June, following a 0.8% rise in May.
And department store sales jumped by 3.4% during June — the largest increase in more than a year.
However, as you can see from the graph, the most recent surges in retail activity have also followed directly after generous government handouts.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/langaug141.jpg">
Source: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.afr.com/">Australian Financial Review</a>
The golden era
Clearly, retail's golden era is somewhere in the past. In fact, the BIS Shrapnel recently forecast retail sales growth of 2.9% per annum over the next five years. And you only need to compare that with around 5% per annum before the GFC.
Add this to the strong incursion being made by online retailing, and you start to realise the retail sector (as a whole) is looking somewhat fragile.
In fact, Moody's rating agency has recently indicated that the credit standing on major Australian shopping centre owners is a risk.
Moody's considers that low vacancy rates and fixed rental increases above the CPI are simply not sustainable given the sudden growth in online retailing.
Online influence
However, it's not just purchasing over the internet that is causing retailers a problem.
Have you noticed how customers conduct instant in-store price checks using their iPhones or iPads? Retailers are now often being forced to further shave already thin margins on the spot to make a sale.
That simply means retailers need to respond more vigourously to this online threat.
Some recent research by Deloitte confirms retailers must change — and quickly — to deliver a seamless online service for their customers.
Bottom line: Historically, retail landlords have been prepared to accept income yields as low as 4% to 5% because they were accompanied by 8% to 9% per annum capital growth. But this is no longer the case.
Leases with fixed rental increases have been growing faster than the CPI, which only creates illusory growth — because those rentals will simply fall back at the next market review.
Therefore, most commercial property owners are now viewing their retail investments as an "income play". And yields have been firming accordingly.
Chris Lang is an advisor to commercial property investors and gives keynote speeches and regular seminars on the best way to invest in commercial property. He maintains a blog, <a href="https://bitly.com/IFf40C">his-best.biz</a>, which he updates regularly about the best way to get the most out of your commercial property investment.
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