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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APM's <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/#!/DocAndrewWilson">Andrew Wilson</a> has a go at those who talked down the Australian economy (June 7, 2012).
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/wilsontweet.jpg">
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Tweet of the week

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The Commonwealth Bank has announced it will reduce interest rates on its range of variable home loan accounts by 0.21 percentage points per annum with effect from Monday 18 June 2012.
The new Standard Variable Rate is 6.80 per cent per annum.
This ensures NAB will have to reduce its standard variable rate by 20 basis points to keep its promise of offering the lowest standard variable rate of the Big Four banks.
NAB is the last of the major banks to make its interest rate announcement and currently has a standard variable rate of 6.99%
"In making this decision, the Group has continued to balance the interests of its 1.8 million home loan borrowers with those of its 11 million depositors, and those of its shareholders, who include 800,000 Australians who own its shares directly, and millions more Australians who own shares through pension funds," the bank said in a statement.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

CommBank passes on 21 bps rate cut to borrowers

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A group of restaurants run by one of Australia's most highly regarded chefs, Justin North, has fallen victim to rapid expansion and has gone into administration.
North and his wife, Georgia, were well known for the award-winning Becasse restaurant, which first opened in 2001. The restaurant is housed in a 19th century sandstone building that was formerly a bank and is decorated with velvet, leather and crystal chandeliers.
Becasse was the big signing for the $840 million Westfield refurbishment and relaunch in October, 2010.
Since opening Becasse, the Norths have expanded their business to include casual restaurants Quarter Twenty One and Etch, takeaway food outlets Becasse Bakery and Charlie &amp; Co burgers, as well as Quarter Twenty One Providore, The Cookery School and Le Grand Cafe at Alliance Francaise.
The group now employs 150 staff. However, its growth has come at a price and Ferrier Hodgson partners Jim Sarantinos and John Melluish were appointed as administrators to the North Group yesterday.
Sarantinos said in a statement released yesterday that the North Group's "rapid growth" led to a "number of underlying business issues" which must be addressed to assure the long-term viability of the North Group.
He said the businesses will trade as usual while an urgent assessment of the North Group's financial position is undertaken.
Sarantinos said his first step will be to liaise with key stakeholders, including employees, landlords and suppliers, to provide them with information about the future of the business.
"I will be looking at restructure options, including the potential for the introduction of new investment," Sarantinos said.
"This is a well-known and well-regarded business that could flourish if appropriately restructured."
North was born in New Zealand and trained in New Zealand, Australia, France and the UK before returning to Australia in 1999.
He worked under chef Liam Tomlin at Sydney's Banc Restaurant and moved through the ranks of the kitchen to the role of head chef before venturing out with his wife, who was the sommelier at Banc, to open Becasse.
North has also released two cookbooks and is well known from his appearances on MasterChef.
North posted yesterday on Twitter from his account @JustinBecasse: "Thank you everyone for your support, to confirm Georgia &amp; I have put Becasse Group into voluntary administration with a view to restructure.
"In the meantime it is business as usual. We will post more updates soon.
"The support and messages have been overwhelming, sorry we haven't been able to respond to all, come by and eat with us soon."
The collapse of Becasse is the latest in a string of high-profile restaurant administrations. High-end restaurant Manly Pavilion closed recently with debts of $590,000, while, last year, creditors voted to liquidate Sydney's three hat Bilson's Restaurant, which had <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/food-and-beverages/20111017-creditors-vote-to-liquidate-sydney-s-bilson-s-restaurant-as-debts-top-1-million" target="_blank">debts of $1 million</a>.
Even <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/economy/20110829-gordon-ramsey-s-melbourne-restaurant-to-trade-on-despite-liquidation" target="_blank">Gordon Ramsay</a> found the Australian restaurant market tough, with his Melbourne restaurant Maze entering liquidation last year owing $4.6 million to local suppliers.
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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cwaters-YrtBR88nBe

Justin North's restaurant group collapses

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Westpac will reduce interest rates on its standard variable mortgage by 20 basis points to 6.89% from 18 June 2012.
This follows <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/anz-passes-on-full-rate-cut-to-borrowers/2012060855042" target="_blank">big four rival ANZ passing on all 25 basis points earlier today</a> with its standard variable rate falling to 6.8% from June 15.
Customers on Westpac’s Premier Advantage Package who receive a minimum 0.7 percentage point discount on the headline standard variable mortgage will see their new effective rate fall to 6.19%.
The reduction in home loan rates will save home owners $41 a month or $492 a year in total monthly repayments on an average mortgage of $300,000.
Since October 2011, Westpac has cut its variable mortgage rates by 97 basis points out of the 125-basis-point reduction in the cash rate since November last year.
“This has been a difficult decision as we have sought to balance the needs of our mortgage customers with those of our millions of savers, particularly retirees who depend on the income from their deposit accounts,” says Westpac Group executive retail and business banking Jason Yetton.
“We also fully appreciate the financial pressures that many households are currently facing even though the economy as a whole is doing well as the latest GDP and job figures released this week showed. That is why we continue to offer discounts on our headline mortgage rate which will see nearly 90% of our home loan customers pay no more than 6.19%.
“And for those borrowers who are looking for security and peace of mind over a longer period given the current financial uncertainty we have also been able today to reduce the rate on our most popular fixed home loan rate, the three year term, to 5.89% once the discount that we offer is taken into account. This new rate will be effective next week.”
“Small businesses will also benefit from the interest rate cuts with cuts in certain headline variable loans of 25 bps. “This is the second time in consecutive months that we have reduced the interest rate on certain variable business loans,” he said.
“Despite increased funding costs, we recognise that it is particularly important at this time to help small business in this way given the critical part this sector plays in supporting the economy and maintaining employment as a whole.”
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Westpac passes on 20 bps rate cut to borrowers

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The current interest rate cutting cycle, which began in November, is not aimed at boosting house prices or “re-igniting a boom in borrowing,” says RBA governor Glenn Stevens. 
Delivering a speech in Adelaide today called “The Glass Half Full”, Stevens said one thing Australia should not do is “try to engineer a return to the boom”. 
Stevens said he agreed that there was a need for more confidence in the economy among households and businesses, but said it had to be “the right sort of confidence”. 
“The kind of confidence based on nothing more than expectations of ever-increasing housing prices, with the associated willingness to continue increasing leverage, on the assumption that this is a sure way to wealth, would not be the right kind. 
“Unfortunately, we have been rather too prone to that misplaced optimism on occasion. 
“You don’t have to be a believer in bubbles to think that a return to sizeable price increases and higher household gearing from still reasonably high current levels would be a risky approach. 
“It would surely be a false basis for confidence. The intended effect of recent policy actions is certainly not to pump up speculative demand for assets. As it happens, our judgement is that the risk of re-igniting a boom in borrowing and prices is not very high, and this was a key consideration in decisions to lower interest rates over the past eight months,” he said.
In his address to the American Chamber of Commerce, Stevens also tackled the nature of the current two-speed economy, blaming it in part on spending habits before the GFC, when property prices were rising by 6% per year. 
He said the dissatisfaction felt in certain sectors of the economy reliant on household spending was not the result of the mining boom not spilling over into these sectors “but a lot to do with events that occurred largely before the mining boom really began”. 
These events, he said, were that “household spending grew faster than income for a lengthy period up to about 2005” and gross debt rising from 70% in 1995 to about 150% in 2007 principally as a result of people investing in housing. 
“Correspondingly, by 2007 the share of current income devoted to servicing that debt had risen from 7% to 12%, despite interest rates in 2007 being below those in 1995,” said Stevens. 
“It is still not generally appreciated how striking these trends were. I cannot say that it is unprecedented for spending to grow consistently faster than income, because it had already been doing that for the 20 years prior to 1995. 
“That is, the saving rate had been on a long-term downward trend since the mid- 1970s. But it is very unusual in history for people to save as little from current income as they were doing by the mid-2000s,” Stevens said. 
“And it is very unusual, historically, for real assets per person to rise at 6 per cent or more per annum. It is also very unusual for households actually to withdraw equity from their houses, to use for other purposes, but for a few years in the mid 2000s that seemed to have been occurring,” he said. 
Overall, he said the Australian financial system is sound and the country well placed.
“Our government is one among only a small number rated AAA, with manageable debt. We have received a truly enormous boost in national income courtesy of the high terms of trade.
“This, in turn, has engendered one of the biggest resource investment upswings in our history, which will see business capital spending rise by another 2 percentage points of GDP over 2012-13, to reach a 50-year high,” he said.
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Current rate cut cycle not aimed at creating ‘risky’ new housing boom: Glenn Stevens

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ANZ will pass on the full RBA cash rate cut to borrowers, the bank has announced as part of its monthly interest rate review.
The bank will lower interest rates for variable rate mortgages and small business lending by 0.25 percentage points per annum effective June 12, 2012.
ANZ’s new standard variable mortgage rate will be 6.80% pa. New small business rates are also effective from June 15.
The 25-basis-point decrease will save customers about $13.50 per week for the average home loan of $280,000, while small businesses will save $6.25 per week for the average business loan of $130,000.
ANZ chief executive Australia Philip Chronican says: "Funding costs remain elevated as a result ofthe deteriorating economic situation in Europe and strong competition for deposits.
“We are, however, pleased to be in a position to reduce rates by 0.25% this month.
“Although there was strong economic growth data this week, we know that several major states and many of our customers are not directly benefiting from the strength of theresources sector.
“The bottom line is that while deposit customers are receiving very competitive depositrates, many of our borrowing customers are under pressure from a range of other costs.We felt that reducing interest rates by 0.25%pa for home borrowers and for smallbusiness was the right decision in these circumstances,' Chronican says.
“This decision recognises that, although we need to be realistic about funding costs and the challenges the global economic situation is presenting, ANZ also needs to absorb itsshare of the burden. Hopefully this decision will help relieve some of the pressures thatwe know home owners and small businesses are facing at present."
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ANZ passes on full 25 bps rate cut to borrowers

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The ski season is nearly upon us with the Queen’s birthday long weekend. As thrill-seekers flock to ski resorts in Victoria and NSW, many may be thinking of buying investment property on the slopes.
Property Observer has cleared the frost and found the cheapest properties available right in the ski fields.
And we’ve found Victoria’s Falls Creek and Mount Hotham are the place to look for cheap properties in the ski fields.
A recent REIV report found property prices in the Alpine region had dropped 22.8% in the year to March 2012. This is confirmed by local agent Paul Englisch from Alpine Property Dinner Plain.
“I would suggest it’s more than 22% with the recent sales we’ve had,” says Englisch.
“There’s more currently for sale that there has been in the last 10 years at any one time. And the prices have all gone down.
“It’s impossible it will last though. In Dinner Plain, just down the road, we’ve started selling more than we’re listing. The total number of properties for sale has being reduced by half there.”
Other agents echo this sentiment, with one suggesting prices have dropped by more than 30% over the year.
$44,500
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/fallsunit.jpg">
A <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-falls+creek-108022321" target="_blank">twin suite in Falls Creek </a>will set you back just $44,500. Rooms 208 and 209 in Silverski Lodge are being sold by RT Edgar Alpine. They each have one bathroom, sleep two people in a bunk bed and share a generous balcony. Agent Christa Zirknitzer says annual outgoings for the property are $3,400. An exact figure for income for the property was unavailable, but Zirknitzer says average income is 2% to 3%. The asking figure is what the vendor paid last year in Morry Schwartz’s mass sell-off.
$79,000
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/fountains.jpg">
In Mount Hotham, unit 2A in Fountains Apartments is available for $79,000 through PRDnationwide. It comes with a small kitchenette, ensuite and a bunk bed, but there is no gas attached to the apartment. The unit is usually leased as staff accommodation and earns $6000 + GST per season. The unit costs $2,171 in outgoings.
 
<hr>
 
$79,000
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/jackfrost.jpg">
For the same price in you can buy apartment five in Mount Hotham’s Jack Frost through RT Edgar. The unit sleeps three people in a three-part bunk bed and includes a decent-sized kitchen, a small entertaining area and a renovated bathroom. The apartment is expected to earn $7,000-$8,000 a year with annual outgoings of $3,200. The similar but renovated neighbouring apartment number four is selling for $105,000, with the same rent and outgoings.
<hr>
 
$92,500
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/falls3.jpg">
In the same lodge, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-alpine-vic-falls+creek-105702103" target="_blank">room 207 is up for grabs through the same agent</a>. At $92,500 the room is somewhat bigger and more comfortable but still only sleeps two people in a bunk bed. Again, outgoings are $3,400, and it’s expected to earn a similar income.
 
<hr>
 
$105,000
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/falls2.jpg">
And for $105,000, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-studio-vic-mount+hotham-107580512" target="_blank">apartment 520 in The Arlberg </a>is up for sale through Alpine Property. It sleeps five people, comes with a new bathroom, a sizeable kitchen and ski storage. The property was renovated two years ago at a cost of $20,000 and has not been leased since then. A similar, but unrenovated, apartment in the same building earns $17,000 a year. However the apartment is expected to cost $5,000 a year in head lease charges and another $5,000 on commission, utilities, cleaning and other fees.
RT Edgar Agent Rob Ford recently sold apartment 519 at The Alberg for $95,000. He says the apartment will earn $15,000 a year with outgoings of $6,000.
Ford says The Alberg generates the best returns in Hotham.
“It’s got a very established in-house management company, there’s a lot of return guests. The outgoings generally are very low, and the occupancy levels are very high.”
One thing was clear from speaking to agents in the area. It all depends on the snow.
“Snow equals money. If we have a good season then everyone is happy,” says Paul Englisch.
And given recent snowfalls, this could be a good one.
Photograph of Mount Hotham courtesy of Tourism Victoria.
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awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Falls Creek and Mount Hotham best for inexpensive ski properties, with prices cooling 

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Local property syndicates are pooling their cash to compete with overseas buyers for select income-producing commercial properties offering annual returns of up to 12%, according to Scott Keck, executive chairman of property consultants Charter Keck Cramer (CKC).
In his latest market commentary, Keck says the firm has noted, among the shifting market dynamics, increasing activity by private investment syndicates. 
“A number of parties are pooling an equity fund of up to $30 million to allow leveraged investments of up to $70 million.
“With a strategy for near neutral gearing, syndicates have targeted fundamentally good-quality assets in good locations that are currently underperforming due to a lack of reinvestment in the GFC-affected era,” he says.
“This activity is a reflection of the changing nature of investment by an ageing demographic, seeking safer superannuation investments.
“This internally generated demand for property assets is now competing with strong investment from overseas. Investors from many of Australia’s near Asian neighbours recognise the high returns and low risk with Australian property and seek to engage with our local market,” he says. 
According to Keck, “carefully selected” income-producing retail, office and industrial properties can provide “regular compounding rental growth and capital return to the combined effect of internal rates of return within the range of 8% to 12% per annum”. 
Keck says Australian commercial property is underpinned by the strength of the country’s economic fundamentals - low inflation, declining interest rates, robust population growth and modest unemployment.
And while these domestic factors have been undermined by the current global turmoil, they remain “more favourable than in almost all other developed countries”.
“Most importantly to property markets, commercial accommodation is in shortage given the limited new supply that has been delivered since the late 2000s due to the initial round of impacts following the 2008 GFC,” he says.
These strong fundamentals and the relative unattractiveness of markets like the US and Europe are already attracting foreign institutional investor capital into Australia, he says.
Keck says it’s “no surprise that international investment is now increasingly targeting Australian property given its longer-term investment timeframe and stability”.
“The settling down of the Australian dollar returns a competitive opportunity back to foreign investors and the attractive total returns flowing from quality Australian commercial property offer a very substantial margin above increasingly lower returns elsewhere,” he says.
He points to a recent Dun &amp; Bradstreet analysis of the world’s safest trade and foreign investment destinations listed Australia equal with Canada, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland as the safest, with Australia occupying the top spot for investment in the Asia-Pacific region, beating Hong Kong, Singapore and New Zealand.
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Local syndicates competing with overseas buyers for high-yielding commercial property: Scott Keck

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The RBA cut rates by a further, 25 basis points on Tuesday, June 5.
This should not have been a surprise especially when one considers what is happening in Europe and the US and our own retail sectors, it would have to take a toll on public confidence.
I would say it’s all about the rest of the world and we needed a buffer to help us through the next few years of turmoil.
The US jobs came in worse than expected, and there is no short-term solution in sight for Europe, and its long-term outlook is bleak. I would anticipate 10 years of no growth in Europe.
The US will enter a long period of small to moderate growth as it attempts to pay down their debt.
Fundamental to both is that they have an ageing population and similar to Japan, which has had no growth for about 21 years, both Europe and to a lesser extent the US have record levels of debt. An ageing population means spending decreases, and when spending slows economic activity slows, which means higher unemployment and lower tax revenue. Japan had an extremely tight immigration policy, which means very few immigrants were allowed into the country.
Natural births to replace an aging population have two disadvantages.
It generally takes 21 years of investing into a newborn before he or she is old enough to work, plus a further two years training on-the-job to attain a skill before he or she can start contributing.
This is slow and a highly costly process. Also, the number of children per household has dropped over the years. There is also no guarantee that job sectors that have skill shortages can be filled, because there is no guarantee that Australians will go into those areas even after they have attained the necessary skills, qualifications and experience.
Immigration, on the other hand, has many advantages for a young country such as ours.
It means one can select the skilled people required and only allow those who have those skills into the country in areas where we are experiencing a shortage in, or restrict their entry conditions to areas that have a skill shortage. They are already trained and the training paid for by another country; they are immediately productive and can pay taxes; they also create an immediate demand for services such as homes, cars, schools, food and other services creating economic growth and prosperity where as an ageing population reduces their spending as they have less need for things such as larger homes and cars and school fees for education, etc.
In Australia unlike Europe, Japan and even the US we have a robust and healthy immigration policy allowing in around 250,000 to 350,000 people annually. Our unemployment rate is 4.8%, and this is considered full employment. Much of this can be attributed to Australians not being prepared to travel to take up jobs in mining towns and other areas that are perhaps hard to get to or other occupations that perhaps Australians are not prepared to accept. One will never achieve 0% unemployment.
 
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Despite fears that immigrants will take Australian jobs and I have heard this statement for over 40 years, the fact is that our long-term average unemployment rates have always sat at around 5.5%. This is considered full employment. Naturally there are times when it has hit around 10% but it generally does not stay at that rate for very long as long as there is economic growth.
However one must be careful and selective about immigration because it can change the nature and landscape of the country. Allowing people into a country with different values and beliefs can cause social unrest. One must balance economic wellbeing with the type of social fabric we want the country to become. However that simply comes down to tighter government policies about the type and quality of people that are permitted to come into this country.
Economically there are very sound reasons for a healthy immigration policy balanced with a socially responsible selection process should provide the best outcome.
While Australia does have a two-speed economy, certain industries such as mining are doing extremely well where other industries such as retail are not doing so well. With what is happening in Europe and the US, global market sentiment is a huge factor that affects our economy. This is proven true by our record savings in this country since the GFC as the general population adopted a defensive stance such as savings and paying down their debt, as opposed to an aggressive growth strategy such as leveraging through increased debt.
I believe the RBA has got it right with the recent 0.25 percentage point drop in interest rates leaving it more room to move if the world economy deteriorates further. This will give the property market a little optimism.
There is also a two-speed property market. The higher end market has continued to drop in value albeit it has slowed and some say even bottomed but the lower end market has shown stability and in some areas have shown growth. However when one averages all the markets together it distorts what is really happening at a micro level. Hence when the averages are reported that house prices in the Australian capitals fell 1.4% in May to the lowest level in six years it really is a distortion of what is happening at a micro level. It simply means one has to be much more careful and selective and do much more research to buy properties that are doing well.
Gone are the days when one could buy any property in any area and you could sit back and watch your properties grow in value.
 Ed Chan is a founding partner of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/">Chan and Naylor</a> accountants and a leading property tax specialist. He has co-authored three best-selling books as a seasoned property investor who understands the relationship between property investment and tax.
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Increased – and selective – skilled immigration needed to help Australia’s economy

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According to data produced by the Victorian government, renters in regional areas of the state move more frequently than those in the metropolitan area.
In Melbourne the average tenancy duration in the December quarter last year was 25.9 months – i.e. just over two years. In regional Victoria the comparative number was a shorter 22.7 months – just under two years.
These numbers are skewed by some very-long-term tenancies, as the median – the middle value – is much lower.
In Melbourne the median tenancy duration was a short 17 months. In regional Victoria it was 15 months.
The data also shows that, as would be expected, the smaller the dwelling, the shorter the tenancy. In both the metropolitan and regional areas one bedroom homes have the shortest median tenancy of just 14 months. This is a very popular form of rental home. Census data from 2006 shows that there are proportionally fewer small flats or units being occupied by their owners – the majority are rented.
Interestingly, the largest homes, those with four or more bedrooms have a shorter tenancy – 16 months – compared with 18 for both two- and three bedrooms. This will be, in part, because two- and three-bedroom houses and units make up the majority of rented housing.
The average duration of tenancy is certainly lower than it is for owner-occupied housing and that is one of the advantages for people who prefer to rent than buy. If an owner-occupier sought to sell and move every two years they would find their equity was eroded by the stamp duty incurred each time.
Enzo Raimondo is CEO of the <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/" target="_blank">Real Estate Institute of Victoria</a>.
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