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

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Regional areas have outperformed capital cities in the year to March, according to ANZ, but not a single region in Tasmania recorded positive house price growth for the year to March.
"Despite being lower in annual growth terms, regional house prices have been more stable than capital city house prices, which have seen larger price falls across all major states and territories," notes the Australian Housing Chartbook.
"While regional house price growth in most states have been dispersed between increasesand decreases, Tasmania’s regional house prices were all lower in the year to March 2012, reflecting the relativelysoft economy and weak labour market conditions."
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Source RP Data, Rismark, ANZ
 
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All Tasmanian regions recorded negative house price growth for the year: ANZ 

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Regional areas have outperformed capital cities in the year to March, according to ANZ.
"Despite being lower in annual growth terms, regional house prices have been more stable than capital city house prices, which have seen larger price falls across all major states and territories," notes the Australian Housing Chartbook.
"Across states/territories and regions, house price growth has continued to differ, reflecting varying economic performance across Australian industries."
"House price growth in WA regional centres has counter-intuitively been the weakest, with house prices in many centres lower in the year to March," says the report.
"While we continue to expect continued divergence within South Australia and ACT regional housingmarkets, a broadly soft economic outlook for the South Australia and ACT economies combined withrelatively balanced housing markets should contain house price growth in the coming year across most regions."
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly10.gif" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly10thumb.gif"></a>
 
Source RP Data, Rismark, ANZ
 
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West Coast and Barossa Valley lead SA house price growth, with sour grapes for McLaren Vale owners: ANZ 

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To build a successful property portfolio, you will need a team of experts to help you on your way. You will need advice on researching, choosing, buying, financing and maintaining a successful investment property.
A buyers’ advocate is only one part of a team of trusted professionals you will need behind you if you are going to take building a property portfolio seriously. You will need a trusted accountant, a knowledgeable solicitor, an experienced conveyancer, a good mortgage broker and possibly some good tradespeople who you know you can rely on to make repairs or enhancements to your properties.
If you are in a relationship, it is also important that your partner is understanding; preferably someone who understands and actively supports what you’re doing, who also understands the market and can help you make judgements about individual properties, and can act as a sounding board and voice of reason when you are starting to get too attached to a property. That person should also understand your need to disappear for hours at a time to view properties on the weekends, not to mention hours trawling through the internet every day. It would be great if your partner joined you in your endeavours, or you split the work.
I’m lucky. I have a very understanding partner who trusts my judgement when it comes to our investment decisions. Of course, it helps that I’m in the industry!
If you are making investments with a partner, that person at least needs to be comfortable that the decisions you make will be for the good of your shared future together. He or she has to be confident that you know what you’re doing.
Money already causes too much friction in long-term relationships. You don’t want to become a property investor at the cost of your partner or family.
Building your team
Behind every successful property investor is a dynamic support team of professionals from real estate and other fields.
I recommend setting up a team of the following professionals:
• A property mentor. A property mentor will help keep you on the right path. Your mentor might be a buyers’ advocate who has invested successfully in her own property portfolio and has purchased hundreds of properties for clients.
• Family or friends. Do you have any millionaires in your family or circle of friends who have made their money by successfully investing in property? If the answer is yes, you may be able to call on them for some help.
• Solicitor. Your solicitor should be someone who specialises in property investment, and whom you trust to look after all your conveyancing and other legal requirements.
• Financial planner. A financial planner will oversee your long-term financial strategy, advise on matters such as superannuation and ensure that you and your assets are protected against ill health or periods of unemployment. (However, be wary of financial planners who try to get you to buy into property from which he gets a commission.)
• Accountant. Your accountant should be someone who understands tax legislation and can use the laws to your best advantage. Your accountant should also be able to advise you on the best way to structure yourself financially, and about keeping your own financial records. Ideally, she should have used the same strategies to set herself up as she are recommending to you.
• Mortgage/finance broker. Your mortgage broker should be a specialist who is up to date with the lending criteria of a wide variety of lenders and who can advise you on how best to structure your loans to help you leverage into multiple properties.
If at any point you find you know more than any of the professionals in your team, it’s time to replace them!
<img src="/images/stories/rightpricecover.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 5px;">
Melissa Opie is known as "The Property Lady" and is founder and managing director of Keyhole Property Investments and helps everyday investors make decisions tailored to their names. She is the author of Find the Right Property, Buy at the Right Price, which is <a target="_blank" href="https://au.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-1118188020">published by Wiley</a>. This is an excerpt of Find the Right Property, Buy at the Right Price.
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How to build a successful property investment team

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The Australian housing market is showing signs of stabilisation after a period of softness and barring a global economic calamity, house prices should rise by around 4% to 5% per annum over the next two and a half years, according to ANZ. 
The report also expects a pick-up in currently weak levels of sales activity in 2013 due to low interest rates and the possibility of further rate cuts, encouraging first-home buyers back into the market.
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<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly11.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly11thumb.gif"></a>
“In the absence of a sharp global economic downturn and escalating domestic unemployment, improving housing affordability, solid household financial positions and strong housing market fundamentals should support modest house price growth into 2013,” says ANZ in its July Australian Property Housing Chartbook compiled by economists David Cannington, Paul Braddick and Ivan Colhoun. 
“While previous structural and policy drivers have now been capitalised into house price growth, we expect prices to increase at a moderate 4% to 5% in annual terms by the end of 2014,” they say. 
The report notes the slowdown in sales activity, with home sales levels running at around 100,000 per month, well below the pre-GFC peak of 140,000 per month and tracking below the 120,000 per month recorded in 2009. 
“While auction clearance rates and days on market have shown some improvement more recently, they also remain well below recent peak levels, suggesting continued divergence between the expectations of home buyers and vendors,” says ANZ. 
“With ongoing softness in house prices and escalating uncertainty around the prospects for the global economy, the outlook for housing market sales continues to look weak over the second half of the year. 
“However, recent interest rate cuts and the potential for further rate cuts should drive improvements in housing affordability, eventually rousing market sales activity from the current lows, especially for first home buyers,” says ANZ. 
The report notes that with the exception of the smaller markets of Darwin and Canberra, house prices have weakened across all other capital cities in the year to June 2012. 
However, ANZ notes the extreme volatility in house prices in 2012 to date, particularly at the high end of the market. 
“House price falls from peak to May 2012 for the most expensive 20% of suburbs have been more than double price falls for remaining 80% of suburbs. This has most likely reflected the negative impact on house prices of increased volatility in equity markets and weak consumer sentiment,” says ANZ. 
An aggregation of housing data from the ABS, RP Data-Rismark and Residex shows that from their peak, house prices for the most expensive houses (the top 20%) have fallen 7.8% while those in the middle 60% have fallen 4.4% and the cheapest hoses (the lowest 20%) have fallen 4.5%.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly112.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly112thumb.gif"></a>
 
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Despite weakening in recent months, the report notes that the Sydney dwelling prices (both houses and units) market has outperformed the other capital cities since the peak of the current price cycle in late 2010.
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<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly113.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly113thumb.gif"></a>
ANZ attributes this strength to “the increasing pressure of stronger population growth on weak housing construction and a degree of resilience after an extended period of prior price underperformance in houses and especially units”. 
Sydney’s housing market has been assisted by having the biggest housing deficiency of all the other states – a shortage of four houses for every one built.
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<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly114.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly114thumb.gif"></a>
Despite experiencing the largest falls over the past year, ANZ says Melbourne housing remains the least affordable across Australian capital cities. 
ANZ says that strong growth in WA household income and weak house price growth has aided Perth’s housing affordability, with the city now ranked sixth least affordable across Australian capital cities compared with equal first least affordable before the GFC.
 
The report also notes an improvement in housing affordability driven by softening house prices, rising household incomes and lower mortgage rates, which ANZ says has been reflected in improved consumer expectations of the best time to buy a house and lower mortgage delinquency rates through 2012. 
“Previous episodes of improving housing affordability (in the early and mid-’90s) were largely driven by significant reductions in interest rates (and steady growth in household incomes). 
“With interest rates at relatively low levels and expectations of moderate growth in household income, improvements in housing affordability through 2012-13 are expected to be driven more by household income gains and weaker house prices than in the past,” says ANZ. 
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Australian housing market stabilising, with 5% capital growth expected to 2014: ANZ

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You may have seen various job listings advertising a job in real estate as a sales agent.  They are usually adorned with wording to the effect of:
<ul>
<li>Want the chance of earning $100,000+ in your first year!?</li>
<li>Passionate about real estate?</li>
<li>Like working with people and have great communication skills? </li>
</ul>
They are all questions most of us would be able to answer with a positive response. 
After all, everyone wants to earn a healthy wage.
Nearly all jobs require good communication skills, and as for a passion for real estate? Well, it's quite simply essential to our daily needs!  A place for shelter, but also a place to express our territorial instincts, adorning our homes with elaborate renovations played out in both reality and fantasy – either with a trip to Bunnings or through the guilty pleasure of watching one of the many top-rating renovation shows on TV. However, what is the life of a real estate sales agent really like?
Does it live up to the hype?
Is it possible to earn wages in excess of $100,000 working for your passion, while at the same time enjoying working in the community? Well not surprisingly like most jobs, the fantasy is hardly representative of the experience.  It’s well known most people have a low opinion of real estate sales agents. There’s even an ad doing the rounds that states: 
''My son is dead – well... he's a real estate agent.'' 
Sales agents are branded as untrustworthy and “slimy”, driving around in their fancy cars, which many imagine have been purchased with overly fat commissions taken from innocent vendors for what most perceive to be minimal work. 
So I thought I’d break from the norm this week and take a look at the reality behind the life of a sales agent, because once again we’ve had the annual Readers Digest 2012 list of most trusted professions released on which real estate agents barely make the cut above car sales people.  In fact they sit just one step above sex workers, which leads to the question: “why would anyone take their clothes off in front of someone they trust less than a real estate agent?”
Having worked as a buyers’ agent for many years, it’s not uncommon to get many customers signing up for the service simply because they don’t want to deal with the sales agents.  For the buyer at least, when they meet a sales agent, there’s this uncomfortable feeling they’re “out to get you” – or at least empty your wallet.  It was interesting to see an article in New Zealand’s <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/sunday-star-times/latest-edition/7160120/Agents-fear-home-truths" target="_blank">Sunday Star Times</a> debating whether sales agents should be required to tell the truth when representing a property to buyers. In the article, Helen O'Sullivan, chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand, was reported making a submission to Parliament that the: “Consumer Law Reform Bill could cause ‘confusion’, rather than protect consumers”.   
It follows the premise that sales agents may not always know the truth regarding a listing with one of their agencies.  However, no one’s asking an agent to convey information they don’t know.  Even if a piece of information relayed to them by the vendor is false, it’s not lying to pass it on – it’s down to the buyer to conduct their own due diligence when it comes to assessment.  After all, few would consider splashing a couple of grand out for a flat-screen TV or laptop without doing a comparative analysis of competing offers.
Thankfully – in Victoria at least – the Estate Agents (Professional Conduct) Regulations 2008 - SECT 11, states
<a href="https://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/vic/consol_reg/eacr2008464/s11" target="_blank">“An estate agent must at all times act fairly and honestly and to the best of the agent's knowledge and ability in the performance of the agent's functions as an estate agent.”</a>
All this aside, all you really need to understand as a consumer is: the selling agent works for the vendor. While you won’t get lies, you won’t get the “negative” side of the story, either.  No property is perfect – beauty is firmly in the eyes of the beholder – however the sales agent is there to represent the positive, not to point out the flaws. 
Is it worth coming bottom of Readers Digest polls? 
Well for some, the answer is undoubtedly “yes” – however easy it’s not.  There’s no doubt sales agents are somewhat compromised through the “commission only” model – or even the current alternative “flat fee” model.  After all, they’re not going to get paid unless they sell the property – even if that means a little “vendor crunching” along the way – and in truth, most vendors have high expectations.  What’s the alternative?  Perhaps a “pay by the hour” model – pay for service, and take commissions out of the equation. 
To last the road, a sales agent must build trust with their vendors.  Without it, building up a referral database (the main source of business for any agency) would be impossible.  Therefore, existing on a roll call of needless exaggerations is simply not a reasonable strategy no matter what the perception. 
Not only this, the common perceptions of real estate agents not working hard are far from the mark (at least for those who desire to be successful). I've often pondered that the advert for employment as an agent’s representative should begin: 
“Are you prepared to give up your weekends for the foreseeable future?” 
Because a career in real estate - especially when you start – will ask you to do precisely that!
Saturday's will be spent opening houses, conducting auctions (especially if you live in Melbourne or Sydney), trying desperately to tie up a deal so you can report a positive result to the boss during the traditional Monday morning sales meeting. But it's not just Saturdays you'll give up.  Many vendors also expect their agents to be on hand Sunday as well!   This means while everyone else is kicking back spending time with the family in shorts and thongs (well, in the summer months anyway!), the local agent will be standing in suit and jacket – rain or shine – donning a smile and welcoming house shoppers and nosey neighbours who only get the weekends to take a squiz at their short list of homes. But don’t agents get a week day off to compensate? 
Well yes, most do, but bear in mind while the agent may have a week day reprieve, it doesn’t mean the phone will stop ringing!
A real estate agent’s business is largely conducted over the phone.  Friday may be their day off, but no one else will know it.  You may think an agent should just turn the phone off? It's very hard to do when you work in a job solely reliant on commissions.
Turn the phone off, and the buyer calling may decide to contact someone else in the office about the house they're interested in. If so, you won’t get the commission should they purchase. 
And even worse – what if it's someone calling for a “free” market appraisal – a potential seller? Well that’s a call you can’t afford to miss.
 As for the open home, well merely conducting the operation is a joy to behold.  Most agents have as little as 15 minutes to get from one listing to another and against all odds, they can't risk being late! (Not an easy task for anyone who may have noticed that weekend traffic is often worst than that during weekdays.)
The vendor is essentially the agent’s boss, so they won't be happy if the agent doesn't show up for work on time.  Especially when they’ve spent the last three hours scrubbing and cleaning in an effort to create a show home masterpiece – all for the sake of a 30-minute open. 
Should an agent dare to leave more time in between opens, once they get to open number nine, they’ll be an unhappy vendor wondering why their property is not being opened until 5pm, when everyone else has knocked off for the night. 
The 15 minutes must also include finding a parking spot at each end of the street and popping the “open for inspection” boards out (if you live in an area that allows them).  For the sake of timing this often requires stopping mid road switching the emergency lights on whilst struggling with a board flapping in the wind. 
Struggling with the keys ,setting out the brochures and switching all the lights on – more often than not, with a queue of impatient buyers waiting outside to hand out names and numbers (which often turn out to be false) is another “perk” of the job. 
As a sales agent, you’ll have to don a permanent smile while at the same time, pretending the train line running so close behind the house that the whole place rattles as it passes isn't really a negative because you can't hear it when the windows are shut and after all – it’s so handy being close to the station! 
Situations like this are all part and parcel of the job.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 Nor does an agent turn off in the evenings.  Work hours prevent most buyers from conducting private inspections during daylight hours. Yet if they're interested enough to purchase a property, a private inspection is often a must. This means the agent will be required to work late – long after other workers have clocked off. 
 
The agent’s mobile phone number is present on every advert – and most agencies will require the agent to use their existing mobile for business (few provide an office phone) therefore it’s also their personal “out of hours” number. 
Most of us wouldn’t give out mobile numbers unless it was to a personal contact – someone we generally wouldn’t mind contacting us out of hours.  However an agent happily hands his number to hundreds of people each week knowing full well there’ll be a proportion of those buyers who’ll take full advantage of the privilege. As I said earlier – it’s all well and good turning the phone off – however miss a call and you risk missing potential commission from an active purchaser or seller.
But let’s get to the crunch – what about the $100,000+ a year wage?? Contrary to popular belief, most sales agents are on no more than $60,000/$70,000 a year, and when they initially enter the business, the starting wage is more like $30,000 to $35,000 per year.  This is because an agent typically works for a minimum retainer, which when I last checked is little more than $500 per week. 
The retainer must cover most expenses, including a smart car and expensive-looking suit – (a well accepted requirement in the industry to at least give the impression of professionalism and expertise.) Therefore it will come as no surprise to learn many agents’ cars are leased, not owned, and the younger ones (in their 20s) usually still live at home.
As for the retainer, well in essence it's little more than a loan. Once a commission is earned, any wages received in the interim will be deducted before it's handed over to the agent.  Remember sales commissions aren't commonly paid until settlement, therefore the lag between the accrued retainer and commission can be a number of months. Average commissions differ from state to state and seem large to the home owner who often hands in excess of $10,000, $20,000 or $30,000 to the agency upon settlement. However the sales agent only receives a small proportion of this – often only 2,000 or 3,000, therefore considering the hours they work it's not all that great. 
Furthermore – when an agent initially starts his career in real estate, it’s not unusual for it take up to and beyond a year to consistently earn in excess of the basic retainer.  Any hint of a $100,000+ a year salary is firmly reserved for those who’ve weathered through five years or more in the industry, building up contacts and often working seven days a week in the process.
By far the greatest fear for an agent is the whiteboard at the back of the office that shows what each agent has sold or listed for the month. 
If an agent falls behind on expected output, the director will start to question his use to the agency.  An agent can be sacked with as little as two weeks’ notice if the boss doesn’t think he’s “paying for his desk”. 
Yet real estate is a competitive business.  It may be easy to pick up listings for the agent who's worked in the industry for a period of years with a substantial database of contacts.  However for those starting out, often the only way to get in front of a seller is to literally walk the streets.  Knock on doors, post leaflets through letter boxes, while avoiding those with “No Junk Mail” signs for fear of upsetting a potential vendor. 
Every enquiry an agent receives from a potential buyer will be followed with the desperate and hopeful question: “Do you have a home to sell?” “Do you require a ‘free, no obligation’ market appraisal?” 
Anyone entering the business better have a thick skin to combat all the angry responses and disappointments. 
Real estate sales is a highly competitive industry – especially in inner-city precincts.  When the initial free, no obligation market appraisal is booked in, most agents will be up against at least two competitors.  With the fear of the whiteboard ever present in mind, it's no wonder one agent will aim to promise more than another when it comes to their estimation of the homes potential sales price (commonly known as “buying the listing”).
Once the vendor has signed on the dotted line, the real work begins. 
The agent won't get paid a cent if she doesn't sell the property – therefore encouraging the vendor to “meet the market” (known in the business as “vendor education”), no matter what was promised prior to the contract being signed, is, of course, common practice. 
Should the agent’s authority period run out on the contract (the period of time the vendor has given the agent to sell the property) before she’s managed to get both the potential buyer and seller to agree on price, then the sales agent will get nothing! 
As for holidays, in the world of real estate they are few and far between.  Aside from the odd long weekend or Easter break, the main holiday period in the real estate industry is Christmas.  It’s the only time an agency can acceptably close. 
Therefore, in the run up to Christmas agents will work harder than ever to wrap up sales and line up potential listings for vendors not making the pre-Christmas deadline. 
The last thing an agent wants is a property looking tired as it hangs on the internet over the festive break slipping further down the default search list on realestate.com.au. 
Furthermore, they'll want to collect as much commission as possible for their own festivities, therefore, a deal done prior to Christmas means extra dollars in the holiday bank account.
All in all the life of an estate agent is a tough one, and only really rewarding for those who truly love, live and breathe property (and there are a few!). 
The real dollars come years down the line once the hard yards have been walked and the reputation of ‘experience’ earned. At that stage, the agent in question is often established enough to afford a PA to conduct the weekend opens and answer all enquiries. 
Therefore, next time you pop through an open home, spare a thought for the agent, who sits at the lower end of most people’s perceptions, yet lives a reality very different from what you may perceive. 
All this aside – we still have to ponder if such extreme commissions are worth the work involved?  The agent may not get the dollars involved, but the agency does – and it’s no small amount.  At some point the whole role of a sales agent is going to have to be re-assessed if they’re to claim back respect from the broader community.  Perhaps “pay for service” is the way to go after all?
Catherine Cashmore is a market analyst with extensive experience in all aspects relating to property acquisition. She is Channel Ten’s property expert on <a href="https://ten.com.au/the-circle.htm">The Circle</a>.
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The unglamorous life of a real estate agent

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<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/demographics/results-of-2011-census-will-help-developers-find-the-most-suitable-project-for-the-market-peter-chittenden/2012062555261">Recently I made a brief reference to the release of the 2011 census</a>. And while I will doubtless return to the census results, I was reminded of my own regard of how an understanding of the impact social change is a key influence on the housing market, and in turn how we manage the guiding principles of our marketing.
In particular I have always had respect for an understanding of how the major factors of “family formation” influence demand in the housing market. They are generally acknowledged as driving much of the demand for housing because as family structures evolve so do housing needs.
Population growth from internal and external migration will always be of critical importance. In many cases migration can also be linked to changes in the family structure, such as the obvious example of family members relocating to another country. Also consider the impact of families relocating to another state or city to secure employment.
Families a wider meaning
Although in modern times the word “family: now includes a much wider definition than it did in the past, the social structures of how we live and who we live with, or who we do not live with, still acts as the major influence on where we look to establish our lives and homes and why we move to or from a particular area.
The trends also apply to varied degrees in a wide cross section of social and ethnic communities. Many of the strict boundaries between social class and ethnic origins have now broken down. But many communities based upon shared ethnic roots still play an important part in shaping some areas of our cities.
The importance of structural change in personal living arrangements appears then to over time to represent one of the main factors that drive demand for real estate. An awareness of these life changes is essential and can be used in many aspects of project marketing.
It requires little imagination to see the impact of what happens when a number of these key events occur in our own lives. While social structures will continue to evolve they are still essential elements in what helps to influence the choice of where we live.
And so I think there is real value in devoting time to explore these key influences, and be alert, as trends not only show up in the census but how they are impacting our own experiences.
From family home to own home, and all the steps in between:
When I was a young adult, it used to be that turning 21 involved getting a key to the door of the family home. Sometimes this was literally a real key to the door, so that you could enjoy your new freedom as an adult to come and go, or simply go and keep a key for those occasional return visits – as some commercials on TV would have us imagine with our washing in tow for mum!
Leaving home would clearly drive demand for new and more accommodation units. Either a first flat or a share house, this first step away from the family home was this step drove demand at a very basic level. Moving out of home clearly drives the first stages of new demand for housing.
While there will usually be many steps between moving into a first rented flat to a buying a house or apartment, new buyers entering the market are very important to the housing cycle.
Change in this area will have far reaching impacts, and we are already seeing this impact in our markets, as housing construction levels are now the same as they were in 1951.
Now research suggests that in their 30s and 40s some adult children are slower than ever in leaving the security of the family home, or just making the step to purchase their own home. Right now this is a real trend in the market, and the flow-through impact is, as highlighted above, extensive.
First-time buyers are seen as so important that they are more or less always given varied forms of financial incentive and encouraged to enter the housing market. The value of this assistance is valued at hundreds of millions of dollars and in NSW first-home buyers will receive a big boost from October 1, 2012. The rental market in 2011 is 29.6% of the housing market, up from 26.3% in 2001, which further highlights the fact that fewer new homes are being built and sold.
Now as the baby boomer generation, the parents of some of these late-to-leave-home adult children are starting down the path of retirement planning their housing aspirations and needs will also another huge factor in the market. The median age of all Australians is now 37, that’s two years older than 2001.
Much of the existing housing stock is owned by the baby boomers, and their plans are helping to fuel demand for new inner-city apartments. They also fuel much of the “change” trends.
Baby boomers (55-64) in empty nests are selling up and are not only still seeking an active retirement via a  sea-change or a tree-change, but a local-change as they move to sedentary retirement (65-74) and are looking to move from the large family home to a nearby apartment or townhouse in the community they know and love.
This is a market that has become so important it is now overflowing with marketing clichés. However if these same baby boomers, like some of their children, prefer to stay put in their existing homes, then another possible stream of activity and supply in the housing market is impacted.
There is also reason to suggest that more independent and healthy baby boomers are staying put because of the high costs associated with moving, a fact that is further amplified if house prices a flat and if moving also involved big stamp duty imposts.
While the impact of these two groups of themselves are hugely important they are only part of the wider picture driving demand, but they serve as important examples of the wider trends that project marketing needs to take into account.
The very real impact of family formation
Having started to look at the role and relevance of varied stages of family formation and in some cases family de-formation, (the impact of divorce is massive) it is very easy to see why this topic has always, for me, been top of mind.
In planning marketing for almost any project, this deceptively simple influence on the needs of consumers as their life-cycle shifts cannot ever be overlooked. There are many useful tips from what many of us either experience firsthand or see others experience.
Historically various reports, including many prepared by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, have pointed to the major influence family formation has on the demand for housing. Not to mention the wider trends picked up in research including the 100 years of census data that we all have access to.
The life cycle of most individuals and their families can be seen as a core factor driving and changing demand. It can also be argued that many of the changes to underlying trends will also point to future trends that the housing market will need to accommodate.
Peter Chittenden is managing director for residential of <a href="https://www.colliers.com.au/Colliers%20Corporate/Residential.aspx" target="_blank">Colliers International</a>
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What changing family structure means for the property market

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The first half of 2012 has been rather dismal for retailers. Figures coming out of the ABS tend to confirm anecdotal evidence that retailing is doing it tough.
And none more so than department stores, fashion and electronics. Food and entertainment remain the only bright spots.
Major players like Myer, DJs, Harvey Norman and JB Hi-Fi have all recorded a drop in profit.
Even with the two interest rate cuts and recent government handouts, the expected bounce in sales is yet to materialise for traditional retailers.
And they have lowered their expectations going forward — with much concern being voiced about the impact of online retailing.
Online sales
While shoppers seem to be shunning "bricks-and-mortar" stores, many consumers are still spending, to the point where online sales have leapt 20% over the past few years.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/langjuly9.jpg">
But you need to keep this figure in perspective: Online retailing is only worth about 5% (or $11 billion) of traditional retail turnover.
Nonetheless, it's a growing trend that clearly has mainstream retailing concerned.
According to the NAB, 75% of this online spending is going to Australian businesses. And yet, tens of thousands of businesses (64% according to MYOB) have no web presence.
So, there is plenty of scope for traditional retailers to restructure, and join the party.
Need for change
Gone are the consumer boom years, where household debt peaked at 150% of disposable income. And clearly, there is now a need for retailers to adjust.
In fact, household savings have been growing since the early 2000s. But the GFC, plus a fall in value of their superannuation and property wealth, have left people feeling poorer.
Hence, their sudden urge to save even more, where households currently have 25.9% of their financial assets in cash — well above the long-term average of 19.5%.
Bottom line: As soon as things stabilise globally and they begin "feeling wealthy" once again, consumers will resume spending and respond with new-found vigour — much like most creatures do after emerging from a long hibernation.
It is during this "catch-up" period that you can expect retail property to regain its position as a sought-after investment once more. And this renaissance should commence towards the end of next year.
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" target="_blank">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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Retail renaissance to begin at the end of 2013

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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/6point1percent.gif">
The median rental yield for Darwin units in June, according to RP Data.
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/5point8percent.gif">
The median rental yield for Canberra units in June, according to RP Data.
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/5point5percent.gif">
The median rental yield for Brisbane units in June, according to RP Data.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/5point4percent.gif">
The median rental yield for Hobart units in June, according to RP Data.
 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/4point9percent.gif">
The median rental yield for Perth units in June, according to RP Data.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/4point9percent.gif">
The median rental yield for Sydney units in June, according to RP Data.
 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/4point8percent.gif">
The median rental yield for Adelaide units in June, according to RP Data.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/4point5percent.gif">
The median rental yield for Melbourne units in June, according to RP Data.
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Capital city unit rental yields by the numbers, with Darwin providing the highest returns for property investors: RP Data

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The recent release of census data from 2011 provides an accurate assessment of home prices to income, which should put to bed some of the argument surrounding more regular measures.
The first round of the 2011 census results was released recently by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). As reported in last week’s Property Pulse, when you paired the national median dwelling price in August 2011 to the annual household income it showed that the typical Australian home costs 6.3 times the average annual income, up from 6.1 times in 2006.
The results were significantly different to some intra-census measures, which suggest housing affordability is much worse.
Of course a national idea of the pricing differential is useful at a macro level, however, around two-thirds of all Australian’s live in capital city housing markets. As a result, median selling prices of homes tend to be higher and in turn, the ratio of house prices to household incomes can also be quite different.
There is also quite a substantial difference in the ratios between detached houses and units. This is reflective of the fact that houses tend to be more expensive than units and they remain the housing type of preference for most Australians (75.6% of all dwellings were detached houses at the time of the census).
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" href="/images/stories/2012/07/rpjuly6.gif" rel="shadowbox"><img src="/images/stories/2012/07/rpjuly6thumb.gif"></a>
For houses, back in 2001 they cost as little as 3.2 times the average annual household income in Hobart and Darwin and up to as much as 6.2 times in Sydney and 4.9 times in Melbourne. Across the unit market the ratio was lowest at the same time in Hobart (2.6 times) and Darwin (2.7 times) and greatest in Sydney (6.0 times) and Melbourne (5.3 times).
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" href="/images/stories/2012/07/rpjuly91.gif" rel="shadowbox"><img src="/images/stories/2012/07/rpjuly91thumb.gif"></a>
Ten years later in 2011 houses cost as little as 4.5 times annual income in Darwin and 5.4 times in Canberra up to as much as 6.1 times in Sydney and 5.9 times in Melbourne. The unit market has remained a more affordable alternative, costing as little as 3.6 times annual income in Canberra and 3.8 times in Hobart up to as much as 5.2 times and 5.1 times more expensive in Sydney and Melbourne respectively.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" href="/images/stories/2012/07/rpjuly92.gif" rel="shadowbox"><img src="/images/stories/2012/07/rpjuly92thumb.gif"></a>
It is perhaps a little surprising that housing isn’t less affordable, especially when you consider that median selling prices have risen between 75% in Sydney and 198% in Hobart over the 10-year period. Similarly median unit prices have increased by between 47% in Sydney and 211% in Darwin compared with growth in household incomes ranging from 46% in Sydney to 83% in Perth. The growth in household income is somewhat helping to curtail a blow-out in the ratio of home prices to household income.
There are a number of other important results from the data:
<ul>
<li>House and unit price to income ratios have consistently been highest in Sydney across the three periods analysed.</li>
<li>House price to income ratios were highest in 2006 within: Sydney (7.7 times), Perth (7.4 times) and Darwin (5 times) while they have remained stable between 2006 and 2011 in Canberra (5.4 times).</li>
<li>Unit price to income ratios were highest in 2006 within: Sydney (6.2 times) and Perth (6.2 times) while they have remained unchanged between 2006 and 2011 in Brisbane at 5.1 times. </li>
</ul>
The data highlights that the ratio of home prices to household incomes is high compared with the national average across most capital city markets. This is reflective of the fact that the population tends to congregate within or close to these eight capital cities and as a result competition for housing stock is generally strong and land is more scarce.
Over the most recent five years there has been relatively little movement in the house price to income ratio across the capital cities. In fact, the ratio of median house prices to median incomes has actually reduced in Sydney, Perth and Darwin and remained stable in Caberra, which is an encouraging development. The fact that the ratio hasn’t increased significantly over the most recent five years is reflective of much slower growth conditions in the housing market. It is also reflective of lower levels of growth in household incomes over the past five years compared with the preceding five years. In fact, household income growth between 2006 and 2011 was slower in each capital city than the growth over the five years to 2006 except in Sydney, Canberra and Darwin.
Overall the results show that housing unaffordability isn’t quite as severe as some reports have suggested, particularly in Darwin and Canberra, where income levels are considerably higher than the capital city average. Of course this doesn’t mean that a steep decline in values is imminent, but it does mean the prospects of significant value growth over the coming five years is lower. At best we would expect home values to rise in line with household incomes over the period. If they continue to grow below this level as they have for much of the last two years, housing will continue to become relatively more affordable. The fact that units provide a viable alternative for buyers on a budget suggests that they will continue to grow in popularity and may continue to outperform houses in terms of value growth over the coming period to the next census.
Tim Lawless is national research director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/">RP Data.</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/"> </a>
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tlawless-5VLUrbAk9s

Housing unaffordability not as severe as some have suggested: Tim Lawless

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Regional areas have outperformed capital cities in the year to March, according to ANZ.
"Despite being lower in annual growth terms, regional house prices have been more stable than capital city house prices, which have seen larger price falls across all major states and territories," notes the Australian Housing Chartbook.
"Across states/territories and regions, house price growth has continued to differ, reflecting varying economic performance across Australian industries."
"House price growth in WA regional centres has counter-intuitively been the weakest, with house prices in many centres lower in the year to March," says the report.
"Of note, house price growth in the Greenough River and Moore regions weremuch weaker in March 2012 (-6.5% and -4.7% respectively) compared to September 2011 (+1.3% and +0.6%respectively). Nonetheless, the economic benefits from major mining and energy projects in WA should boost house prices in many WA major regional centres over the next 12-18 months."
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly94.jpg" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/07/anzjuly94thum.jpg"></a>
 
Source RP Data, Rismark, ANZ
 
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