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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The vendor of 8 Yarra Bank Court in Abbotsford has signed the house up to a Twitter account in an attempt to harness social media to sell the property.
Every day or so the house tweets another sweet comment about how things are going in the area and what a joy it is to live there. A recent tweet was "Spectacular view of the moon rise from the bedroom balcony at Yarra Bank CRT tonight", and another read "So wet cold and miserable outside. So warm and toasty from inside with the central heating on. Perfect day at YBC."
After joining Twitter 21 days ago the account already has 272 followers.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/housetwitter.jpg">
The campaign is part of a growing social media trend in Australia, recently started by Northcote resident Kurt Opray. He reckons his house sold for $135,000 above his reserve price after signing the house up to Twitter and YouTube and starting a blog. It all generated publicity on old media, via print and television coverage.
Opray has since started a business offering the same service to vendors. Other houses he has currently signed up for Twitter and blogs include a three-bedroom house in Beaumaris, a four-bedroom house in Sandhurst Golf Club and a three-bedroom house in Mildura.
He generally charges around $4,000 for each campaign, with a large focus on reaching an audience interested in buying property. In an interview with Alan Kohler for Qantas in-flight radio, he said his aim was use twitter to entice people to the area. He suggests to make it very conversational giving people a feel for what it's like living in the house.
"The fellow who ended up buying the house said he did spend some time looking through the blog the day before the auction, which is fabulous."
"You have to understand how to get the right followers [on Twitter]."
"There's ways to use Twitter to find people who have an interest in something you're purveying."
He advocates the use of social media on top of an agent's usual marketing campaign.
Since the media storm surrounding his sale it seems more and more vendors are running custom Twitter accounts, and it seems the trend may sometimes assist – South Morang's 10 Mirrabucca Street sold late last month after just three weeks on the market.
 
Houses with Twitter accounts
95 Todd Ave Yeppoon, Queensland <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@95ToddAve" target="_blank">@95ToddAve</a> 140 followers
29 Pacific Boulevard Beaumaris, Victoria, <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@BeaumarisHouse" target="_blank">@BeaumarisHouse</a> 0 followers
22 Quarterdeck Road, Sandhurst, Victoria <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@sandhursthouse" target="_blank">@sandhursthouse</a> 17 followers
32 Cale Street Como, WA, <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@ComoHouse4Sale" target="_blank">@ComoHouse4Sale</a> 67 followers
56 Rose Avenue Glen Waverly, Victoria, <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@GlennyHouse" target="_blank">@GlennyHouse</a> 126 followers
5/67 Canadian Bay Road, Mount Eliza, Victoria <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@MountElizaUnit" target="_blank">@MountElizaUnit</a> 286 followers
31 Nara Road Mitcham, Victoria, <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@31NaraRoad" target="_blank">@31NaraRoad</a> 171 followers
10 Landon Place, Sheffield, Tasmania <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@TasHouse4Sale" target="_blank">@TasHouse4Sale</a> 10 followers
19 Karnu Drive,Ninderry, Sunshine Coast, Queensland <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@NinderryHouse" target="_blank">@NinderryHouse</a> 80 followers
15 Clearview Pde, Hazelbrook, NSW, <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@Hazelbrook4Sale" target="_blank">@Hazelbrook4Sale</a> 86 followers
8 Yarra Bank Court, Abbotsford, Victoria <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/@YarraBankCourt" target="_blank">@YarraBankCourt</a>
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awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Three bedrooms, two car spots and 140 characters: Houses with their own Twitter accounts

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Three square metres is all it takes to run a hotdog shop, apparently.
Possibly Melbourne’s smallest retail food store, Dognation squeezes into its tiny alleyway nook like a sausage into a bun.
The owner of the morsel-sized shop, Seong-Lee Ang, thinks it’s the smallest food shop in the city.
“Our leasing agents said they have never heard of anything as small as three square metres for a food shop,” says Ang.
He says demand is high for small unique spaces like the one he has and places are hard to find.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/dognation2.jpg">
“We get a lot of people who would be dying to take the space we’ve got because it’s one of those iconic things for Melbourne. Especially for little laneways, they’re always in really high demand.”
Ang pays a higher than usual price per square metre but ultimately pays very little given the size.
“On a square metre basis we pay probably double the going rate. But compared to the total annual rent of other shops it’s not much.”
Leasing agent Andrew Hewett from Fitzroys says the shop was originally leased for $4000 a square metre with two years ago with 4% annual increases.  
The novelty of such a small shop is part of the draw for consumers, Ang says.
“The talking point of us being in such a tiny spot has been a really big thing, besides the product itself,” he says.
“It is a big factor to us to say what is our productivity out of such a small space, and there are definite advantages from a cost point of view.”
Ang seems attracted to strange locations and plans to open another branch inside an espresso bar on Southbank next month.
“We’re doing a store within a store concept. Using space within a different shop and creating a small brand within a brand. We are essentially a lunch trade only, so we can take advantage of the lunch hours within the other shops.
“It’s a private arrangement, it’s not an official sublet. We’ve got a connection with the owners of the espresso bar, it’s an internal arrangement.”
But it’s not the only tiny shop in Melbourne though. On the way back from visiting Dognation, Property Observer popped into Switchboard for a quick coffee.
Owner Joe Sayers says the kitchen area for the coffee shop is just 1.8 square metres, but there’s enough room for a coffee machine and two staff. The former cigarette booth now has seating opposite in what was formerly the building’s switchboard. Switchboard even offers a limited food menu so perhaps Dognation isn't top dog with its claim to miniature fame. Maybe it's time to play ketchup.
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Hotdog shop Dognation almost cuts the mustard in one of Melbourne’s smallest retail premises

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Developer Dexus’ super-green Sydney development One Bligh Street has been named the best tall building in Asia and Australasia by The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat.
This makes it one of the seven best tall buildings in the world for 2012 according to the council, the first time an Australian building has won the award.
The building houses Australia’s tallest naturally ventilated sky-lit atrium, a feature that impressed the judges.
"The dramatic, naturally ventilated central atrium connects the office workers with nature at the inner depths of the plan, giving a sense of openness for the entire building,” says jury panel member Werner Sobek, founder of Werner Sobek Group.
The council says buildings were selected for their design and technical innovations, sustainable attributes and the enhancement of both cities and the lives of their inhabitants.
“The winners display remarkable creativity, as well as a respect for the environment, connection with place, and the urban surroundings,” says awards committee chairman Richard Cook of Cook+Fox Architects.
The building could still be named the world’s best tall building at the 11th Annual Awards Ceremony and Dinner at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Mies van der Rohe’s iconic Crown Hall, Chicago. From the four regional best tall building winners, one overall winner will be selected and bestowed with the “Best Tall Building Worldwide” award, to be announced on the night.
The other regional winners were the Absolute Towers in Mississauga, Canada; Palazzo Lombardia, Milan, Italy; and Doha Tower, Doha, Qatar.
One Bligh Street has been valued at around $629 million and has a six-star green star rating. Standout features for the building include its double-skin façade and glass atrium but it requires high rents to deliver a suitable return to its owners.
Rents are believed to be in the $900 to $1,100 per square metre range for lower floors, rising up to around $1,300 for the upper floors.
Law firm Clayton Utz is the tower’s anchor tenant, and the Commonwealth government's Ministerial and Parliamentary Services recently leased three floors. Papua New Guinean oil and gas company Oil Search also just leased two levels, and financial media group Bloomberg is tipped to be the next tenant to sign on.
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Dexus’ One Bligh Street named best tall building in Australasia 

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The next wave of online retailing, far more dangerous for traditional store retailers than the first wave, is now upon us. It has been happening in the US and Europe for more than a year, but has now arrived in Australia.
It is – wait for it – full-price, non-discount retailing. That’s right – they don’t compete on price. The first wave of online retailers was, and still is, the discounters, but why are full-price online stores more of a wealth hazard for traditional bricks and mortar retailers? Because the margin is applied to service, specifically better delivery, instead of discounting.
The first of these is an online clothing and footwear store called The Iconic, which started up six months ago. It was created in just six months of business planning by five former management consultants, four from Boston Consulting and one from McKinsey and Co, copying similar operations in Europe.
The Iconic’s point of difference is that it offers free overnight delivery, guaranteed, within Australia, and three-hour delivery in Sydney for $4.95. Returns within 100 days have free delivery as well.
The business’s principals are two Australians, Adam Jacobs and Cameron Votan, two Germans, Finn Henzel and Andreas Otto and an American, Ryan Tuohy. They were all working in Sydney with BCG and McKinsey and decided a year ago that there was a gap in this country for a full-priced, free delivery retailer, copying ones in the US and Europe that had already taken off.
They got start-up funding from Rocket Internet, one of the world’s biggest incubator funds, as well as a private Swedish fund called Kinnevik.
Almost all innovation involves taking something that’s already being done and doing it better, and the key to making this one work was developing a partnership with Australia Post. Under Ahmed Fahour’s management Australia Post is trying to transform itself into a parcel delivery service for products bought online, to counter the collapse of ordinary mail.
The five partners persuaded Fahour and his team to initiate a sorting shift between 2am and 4am that didn't cost The Iconic or its customers any more. It means that products bought in the evening in front of the TV are ready to be dispatched by 6am the next morning and delivered free at 9am (according to Adam Jacobs).
The three-hour delivery within Sydney is done by a courier company and an automatic dispatch system; any longer and the fee is refunded.
This is an astonishing level of service, and takes online retailing to the next level.
The five partners won’t reveal any of their numbers except website traffic, which is public anyway. The Iconic is averaging 150,000 unique visitors a day, which is about three times the traffic that most of the traditional retailers are getting to their online stores.
Henzel told me they are “considerably” ahead of business plan at this stage and growing rapidly, mainly supported by performance marketing online, but also some TV, radio and print marketing.
In my view this sort of operation is a dire threat to existing store retailers, especially the big cumbersome ones.
At this stage it sells about 500 fashion brands – mostly Australian, but they are steadily signing up international brands as well. The reason it’s taking longer for the overseas brands is that they have to deal with local distributors, who have close existing relationships with stores like David Jones and Myer and are reluctant to deal with a challenger.
But it’s more of a threat to the property owners. Myer, David Jones and the other fashion chains all now have online stores and although they have been slow to move, they can catch up if they’re good enough.
But the landlords have no hope. Like print media, they are in a business with a limited future – the only question is how long they’ve got.
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/" target="_blank">Business Spectator.</a>
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akohler-TyLfJGrMb8

New wave of online retailers pose more of a threat to Aussie bricks and mortar stores: Kohler

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On the night of June 21, CEOs and senior management at many major Australian companies won’t be going home to their penthouse apartments but will sleep on the ground to raise money for the Saint Vincent de Paul Society.
Participants of the CEO Sleepout will spend a night sleeping outside to experience a night of homelessness with limited bedding and food.
So far 1,032 participants have raised a total of $1.48 million, in an effort to raise awareness of homelessness in Australia.
The event was launched by Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry, who spoke about hidden face of female homelessness.
“For me, the number of women and children who are homeless is a statistic and phenomena that we shouldn’t tolerate, and I think that is true of all homelessness.”
She called on female business colleagues to take up the challenge.
NSW is well in the lead in terms of fundraising at the time of writing. NSW has raised $767,646 with 271 participants, Queensland’s 158 have raised $499,433, WA’s 114 have raised $360,098, Victoria’s 148 have raised $299,817, South Australia’s 100 have raised $226,094, ACT’s 153 have raised $225,694 Northern Territory’s 37 have raised $58,487 and Tasmania’s 51 have raised $49,036.
The participants include Westpac’s Gail Kelly, Commonwealth Bank’s Ian Narev, ABC’s Mark Scott, Jones Lang La Salle’s Andrew Balzanelli and CBRE’s Phil Rundle and Andrew Stewart.
Kevin Rudd will take part in the event again this year. Last year he opted to sleep in Melbourne, saying Queensland’s warm nights were “simply too soft”. Malcolm Turnbull has signed up this year though so far he’s raised just $365 since signing up on May 24. Other politicians include Federal MP Kelly O’Dwyer and Queensland’s leader of the opposition Annastacia Palaszczuk.
To donate, visit <a href="https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/">https://www.ceosleepout.org.au</a>
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CEOs to swap four-poster beds for sleeping bags in CEO Sleepout

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The Victorian Parliament amended the Sale of Land Act in the first week of June to give effect to a recommendation of the Royal Commission into the Black Saturday bushfires that vendors be required to advise if the land they are selling is in a bushfire-prone area. 
The date from which this advice will be required is yet to be decided. 
When it is required, the advice will appear in the vendor’s section 32 statement. 
This information is currently publically available, and owners can conduct a search to ascertain the bushfire status of their land. The Victorian government has made this service available through the Department of Planning and Community Development. 
By visiting the <a target="_blank" href="https://services.land.vic.gov.au/landchannel/content/addressSearch">government’s website</a>, you can confirm your land’s bushfire status by entering the address of your property and selecting a free bushfire-prone area property report. The report will advise if the land is in a designated bushfire-prone area. The areas judged bushfire prone were determined by the Minister for Planning. 
If the area is bushfire-prone, the report will advise as such and detail the special construction requirements that apply. 
While the requirement may add to the conveyancing costs of a sale, as your solicitor or conveyancer will need to locate the report and include it in the vendor’s section 32 statement, it does ensure buyers are informed and are prepared should they purchase a property in a bushfire-prone area.
Enzo Raimondo is CEO of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reiv.com.au/">Real Estate Institute of Victoria</a>.
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enzoraimond-7fvRFHPR52

Victorian vendors to disclose threat of bushfire to residential land

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The Basement club at Circular Quay is on the market after its owners have decided to conclude their 13-year tenure.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/basement1.jpg">
There are 10 years left on the lease, according to the Spencer-Carr Property listing agents.
Since opening in 1973 the premises have had the likes of Neil Diamond through to Prince grace its stage.
It’s being marketed as suitable for alternate licensed food and beverage concepts.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/basement2.jpg">
“It will obviously appeal to quality music industry professionals, but can also be evolved into a variety of successful licensed food and beverage concepts,” Adam Spencer-Carr suggests.
The venue holds a 24-hour hotel licence and a 550-person capacity located at Circular Quay over two levels.
Licensees Tim Read and Jane Burridge are selling to pursue other priorities.
In a statement published by Fairfax Media, they said they had spruced the place up, but resisted pressure to install poker machines.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Basement club at Circular Quay looking for another owner

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It's taken a few days for the immediate impact of the NSW budget housing initiatives to sink in.
The initial headlines exulted Treasurer Mike Baird’s decisions.
But there are emerging short-term humps – through the creation of needlessly complex artificial deadlines – for the NSW housing and property industries to overcome.
And then some serious long-term consequences that could potentially effect residential property across Australia.
After all, NSW has broken from the 12-year-long pact that has given established home sellers the potential benefit of buyers with the first home buyers’ grant.
Now established home sellers in NSW will not get any benefit from the grant that derives from Howard government GST introduction negotiations with the states in 2000.
The short-term issues are timetabling issues for buyers and property developers.
It was pointed out by Property Observer shortly after Tuesday's midday budget that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/landlords/nsw-property-investors-condundrum-take-the-%2422490-housing-bonus-now-or-just-%245000-after-july-1/2012061255081">NSW investors faced an immediate conundrum.</a>
It’s actually a NSW government-induced “money or the box” scenario.
And the government really should know better than create a situation where property investment is an even bigger lottery than normal.
For the next 16 days investors have a zero stamp duty option – and the potential saving of $22,490 through the NSW home builders' bonus.
It’s available if investor buyers put a deposit down for an off-the-plan purchase or new house costing less than $600,000.
But from July 1, 2012, the best deal for government grants will be a fixed $5,000 offering in a new scheme for investors of new homes, whether off the plan or newly built.
It then became apparent from the budget papers minutiae that first-home buyers face a timetabling scenario too – as they might best hold off their buying to await the full bonus until October.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/budget-s-first-home-buyer-%248000-bonus-might-actually-pause-nsw-new-home-purchasing-until-october/2012061355094">Property Observer advised its readers on the day after the budge</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/budget-s-first-home-buyer-%248000-bonus-might-actually-pause-nsw-new-home-purchasing-until-october/2012061355094">t</a> that despite the NSW government’s best intentions, sales of new houses and apartments to first-time buyers could possibly ease off temporarily until October 1.
Savvy first-home buyers might delay their new home acquisitions to secure an $8,000 bonus based on a $550,000 new dwelling.
The entitlement of first-home buyers who sign a purchase contract for a new home between yesterday's state budget and September 30 is $20,240 + $7,000 totalling $27,240.
But wait until October 1 and it’s $20,240 + $15,000, or a maximum total of $35,240.
Those immediate glowing headlines didn't quite contain the requisite consequential details required by the welcoming property development industry hardheads.
In some sense the drilling down into the details doesn't reveal anything too serious in the short term for the property development industry, which it has to be said retains its repeated podium placing when it comes to awards for getting government handouts.
But both deadline issues are the by-product of governments that nowadays regularly delay the introduction of special initiatives, presumably so that they get two lots of favourable headlines – on announcement and then on implementation.
Government by press release.
Recall the Queensland Treasurer Andrew Fraser unveiled his $10,000 new home building boost grant in his June 2011 budget. And the home building industry immediately went dead because its introduction date wasn’t until August 1.
Accordingly, Queensland led a national fall in dwelling approvals in June, with an 18.6% fall compared with May highlighting the naïve, and often cruel, hand of government intervention.
Veteran NSW unit builder Harry Triguboff has cottoned on that changes announced by the NSW government to home buyer incentives are set to create short-term distortions especially between July 1 and October 1.
“Nothing will happen,” he told the Australian Financial Review.
“The government will have killed the investors and still not given birth to the first-home buyers.”
But between now and July 1 when it comes to investors Triguboff says: “we have to go hell-for-leather to sell before July 1 to investors, because they’ll still get something.”
Three months then elapses before the October 1 start of the full $32,450 generosity of the new first-home owners’ grant and stamp duty concessions.
“For the [interim] months, it’s going to be hopeless,” Triguboff says.
“I cannot enter into an agreement and say we’ll exchange it after October; it’s illegal. I would defeat the purpose of what the government is doing.”
The new package excludes the buyers of existing homes altogether. And industry chief are optimistically suggesting little impact on the first-home buyer market when it comes to established unit and house sales.
Real Estate Institute of NSW Tim McKibbin didn’t like the decision but says he did not expect any significant changes to the second-hand market. And Raine &amp; Horne chief Angus Raine also says the second-hand market would experience little impact.
But that's not what's emerged from January 1, 2012 after the NSW government's initial decision to shift first-home buyer interest towards new homes and away from established homes. It was in last year's NSW budget.
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The latest numbers show a dramatic downturn in first home buying as indicated in the latest report on NSW housing by CBRE. Following the initial removal of concessions for existing homes from January 1, 2012, the data indicates first home buyers constituted 15.1% of the market in early 2012, down from the over-representative 26.3% in December 2011, when there was a rush by first-home buyers to get the then bigger government handout.
First-home buyer activity is now sitting at 2005 levels, CBRE notes, in the wake of the first stage of the phasing out of the concessions for existing home purchases. It will be interesting to see the renewed consequences of the further narrowing of buying options which ofcourse comes accompanied by a generous increase in government handout for first time buyers of new homes. But will it get to new house buyers or just new unit buyers?
B<a href=""></a>oosting housing on the city fringe takes time and will require a quantum shift in Gen Y buying location preferences. So surely most of the short-term buyers will use their grant on new apartments in the inner and middle ring suburbs, an industry which is not doing too badly at the moment.
"This budget is meant for cottages, and nobody wants cottages,” Triguboff says.
“They all want apartments.”
Escalation in the off the plan prices of trendy new inner city studios will be worth watching during 2012.
An interesting tip from Ted Hoskin, the CBRE NSW residential mortgage valuations senior director, is that down the track the main buying activity, and therefore beneficiaries, arising from the state budget decisions will be seen in the new home sector in the north and south-west growth centres.
The golden era of government grants assisting the established housing market is ending.
Not so much because governments ever viewed it as the disparagingly dubbed "first home sellers' grant" but rather because the emphasis is understandably fixed on poor construction numbers and housing shortages. So standby for the other state governments proposing their initiatives to also seek to turn around housing supply shortages.
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NSW budget’s needlessly complex artificial deadlines and decisions have short-term and long-term consequences for residential property

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The sale of Australian CBD hotels to offshore interests continues, with a Malaysian investment trust paying $415 million for a portfolio of three five-star Marriott hotels.
The Sydney Harbour Marriott, the Brisbane Marriott and the Melbourne Marriott have been bought by Malaysia-listed Starhill Real Estate Investment Trust, managed by Malaysian conglomerate YTL Corp.
Asian buyers have accounted for 93% of all hotel sales this year.
The Marriott properties formed part of Colonial First State’s (CFS) Commonwealth Property Hotel Fund, which is being wound-up.
The sale was negotiated by Mark Durran and Craig Collins of Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, who says the federal government’s changes to withholding tax on management investment trusts “caused some friction” but did not prevent the deal from going ahead.
The three hotels were acquired by CFS between June 2000 and April 2001.
The jewel in the crown is the 550-room Sydney Harbour Marriott at the northern end of Pitt Street, which was constructed in 1989 and underwent a $35.5 million refurbishment during the 2002-2003 financial year.
The Brisbane Marriott is a 267-room hotel constructed in 1998, and the Melbourne Marriott is a 185-room hotel constructed in 1982. It underwent an $8 million refurbishment in 2002.
Prior to the acquisitions Starhill had a market capitalisation of around RM1,025 million ($324 million as of June 2010) comprising  the JW Marriott Hotel Kuala Lumpur and 60 units of serviced apartments, four levels of commercial podium and two levels of car parks located within The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur.
The Australian acquisitions will bring its portfolio to around $1 billion.
The five-star hotel sale attracted significant interest from offshore investors and takes total hotel sales to $614 million for the first six months of the year, with  Jones Lang LaSalle estimating that this could double by the end of the year.
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Malaysian REIT pays $415 million for Marriott five-star hotel portfolio

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McGrath Mid North Shore agent Peter Chauncy has ranked as Australia’s top estate agent, according to a new Top 100 survey by industry magazine Real Estate Business.
Chauncy, who sells property in Chatswood, Crows Nest, Lane Cove and Naremburn, racked up 79 property sales over the 2011 calendar year worth $88 million.
The rankings were compiled based on a range of criteria including sales volumes, sales numbers and average sale prices.
Chauncy admits to being a workaholic who works 75 hours each week, but says he loves it.
“I really am passionate, and that enthusiasm and passion really rubs off on people, and I think that’s been a key part to our success,” he says.
Chauncey will become principal at the new McGrath Crows Nest office when it opens in August this year.
His most recent sale was a 1,094-square-metre site on Talus Street in Naremburn, which he sold alongside David Howe for $2.655 million. The site has approval for an eight-apartment complex.
Another McGrath agent, Wayne Vaughan from the Epping office, ranked fifth on the list, with sales of $73 million. Four McGrath agents made it into the top 10, and 10 were among the top 100.
Ray White dominated the list, with 17 out of the top 100 spots.
Edward Hobbs from Biggin &amp; Scott Richmond ranked second ($81 million in sales) followed by Ric Serrao from Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay ($74 million) and Glen Coutinho from hockingstuart Hawthorn ($85 million)
In dollar terms, Jason Boon from Richardson &amp; Wrench Elizabeth Bay/Potts Point ranked first, with $130 million worth of sales from just 55 transactions.
Jay Standley from Barr and Standley Real Estate Bunbury, WA, managed the highest number of sales at 189 (or more than one sale every two days) to rank 53rd overall.
The top female agent was Karen Vogl from hockingstuart Ringwood in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, who clocked up $80 million in sales and ranked 11th overall.
Nearly half (47) of the top 100 were NSW agents. There were 17 each from Victoria and Queensland and 14 frm WA.
The top 100 was based on agency submissions and received over 400 submissions, according to Alex Whitlock, publisher of Real Estate Business.
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