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]

Joel Robinson

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 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

What does it really mean for a building to be 'green'?

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>

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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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RBA deputy governor Philip Lowe has highlighted the struggles facing hotel operators in coastal Queensland in a speech on structural changes in the Australian economy as a result of the mining boom and the high Australian dollar. 
Addressing the Australian Industry Group 12th Annual Economic Forum in Sydney today, Lowe presented the following slide clearly showing the disparity in room occupancy rates in inner-city hotels in Melbourne and Sydney versus those for resorts in the tourist regions of the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Whitsundays.
<img src="/images/stories/occupan.gif" width="470">
Lowe said the high dollar had “contributed to a decline in travel to the traditional domestic holiday destinations, with Australians travelling overseas in ever increasing numbers”. 
“This has created quite difficult conditions for parts of the industry with, for  example, room occupancy rates along the Queensland coast having fallen over recent years. 
“In contrast, conditions are noticeably stronger in the accommodation sectors in some of the large cities, which are benefiting from an increase in business travel and an apparent shift in preferences by overseas tourists for city-based experiences. 
“In Sydney, for example, room occupancy rates are at quite high levels,” he said. 
The gap between short-term visitor arrivals (496,800 movements) and short-term resident departures (667,100 movements) widened in January, according to the latest ABS figures. 
During January 2012, short-term visitor arrivals decreased by 0.6% while short-term resident departures increased 2.1% on a seasonally adjusted basis.
 
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Dollar hurting tourism, especially Queensland coastal hotel occupancy: RBA

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Victoria recorded the largest improvement in housing affordability in the final quarter of 2011 with smaller improvements recorded in WA, Queensland and Tasmania, according to the latest REIA/Deposit Power Housing Affordability Report. 
Nationally, housing affordability improved by just 0.7 percentage points, with the proportion of income required to meet home loan repayments falling from 33.6% to 32.9%. 
Over the three-month period, the proportion of income required to meet loan repayments in Victoria fell from 35.6% from 33.1%. 
As a result Victoria has dropped from second least affordable housing market to third, swapping places with South Australia, where housing affordability worsened, with the ratio of median income to median mortgage repayment rising from 33.5% to 34.2%.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/afforda.jpg"><img src="/images/stories/affordathumb.jpg"></a>
Source: REIA
 
REIA president Pamela Bennett says of the three quarters to record improvements in housing affordability in 2011, the December quarter’s improvement was the smallest.
“The increase of 1.1% in the median weekly income and the decrease of 0.9% in average monthly loan repayments explain the 0.7% decline in the proportion of family income required to meet loan repayments over the quarter,” she says. 
“With the average loan (excluding refinancing) increasing over the quarter by 3.6%, the 0.5% interest rate cut was the reason for the decrease in loan repayments.” 
Housing affordability worsened in NSW (up 0.8% to 37.9%), and it remains the least affordable housing market. 
Housing affordability improved in Queensland (down 1.5 percentage points to 31%), WA (down 1 percentage point to 22.9%) and Tasmania (down 0.9 percentage points to 27.1%). 
The ACT remains the most affordable housing market (up 0.7 percentage points to 18.6%) followed by the Northern Territory (up 0.8 percentage points to 22.4%). 
Nationally, the number of loans to first-home buyers increased by 25.6% to 29,128 over the December quarter and 23.8% over the year, with NSW accounting for more than a third of first-time borrowers (11,194). 
During the quarter, Western Australia was the only state or territory to record an increase in the number of loans, up 1.6%. South Australia recorded the biggest decrease, down 17.8%.
During the December quarter, New South Wales recorded the highest average loan size across the country; this figure currently sits at $344,012. The lowest average loan size was recorded in Tasmania, at $212,584.
 
 
 
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Victoria leads marginal national increase in housing affordability: REIA

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Here’s a starling but true fact: most Australians who get involved in property investment never develop the financial freedom they were looking for. 
Close to half of those who get into real estate sell up in the first five years, and of those still in the game, most never get past their second investment property. 
However, some investors do very, very well. 
To help you succeed in your investment endeavors, here are four common mistakes property investors make and how you can avoid them. 
1. Buying the wrong property
To achieve financial freedom through property investment you’ll need to accumulate a large asset base. 
This means owning the right properties – ones that grow strongly in value and outperform the averages, so you can borrow against your increased equity and fund further property purchases. 
However, when you ask many investors why they purchased their property they’ll say things like: it was close to where they live, where they holiday or where they want to retire. 
These are all emotional reasons for buying property, and while possibly a good way to buy your home, they are not the right way to buy an investment property. 
Of course the alternative is to buy properties based on research and buy those that further your wealth creation plans. 
 2. Not having a plan 
Most of us spend more time planning our holidays than we do planning our financial future. 
If you don’t have an investment plan, how can you hope to develop financial independence? 
Most Australians fall into four categories: 
a. They don’t invest at all.
The majority of Australians fall into this is the group – they just haven’t taken action yet. 
b. They don’t invest enough. Others have bought a home and understand the power of appreciating real estate, but they want to pay it off before they invest in more real estate. 
This means they are not using the untapped equity in their homes to further their financial futures. 
c. They invest too much. Some people invest too much – yes, that’s possible! 
They have taken unnecessary risks and borrowed too much. Investors who are too highly geared may run into trouble as interest rates rise in the future. 
d. Those who invest the right amount.
Then there are those who invest just the right amount. Not too little. Not too much. They invest the right amount – sounds a bit like Goldilocks, doesn’t it? 
For them every property purchase is part of a thought-out wealth creation plan. 
The problem is that if you don’t have a strategy it’s easy to get distracted by all the “opportunities” that keep cropping up. 
Unfortunately many of these don’t work out as expected. Look at all the investors who bought off the plan or in the so-called next “hotspot”, only to see the value of their properties underperform.  
3. Not reviewing your property portfolio 
While property is a long-term investment and the costs of buying and selling real estate are considerable, that doesn’t mean you should fall into the trap of not reviewing your property portfolio.
Of course you can’t easily “swap” properties or reweight you property portfolio like you would shares. But you should still regularly review your property investment portfolio to see what you can do to improve or upgrade its performance. 
When was the last time you checked to make sure you were getting the best rents or that your mortgage was appropriate for the current times? 
Maybe it’s time to refinance against your increased equity and use the funds to give you a buffer for the uncertain times ahead or maybe to buy further properties? 
And sometimes it is appropriate to consider selling an underperforming property to enable you to buy a better investment. 
Remember in the next phase of our property cycle some properties will strongly outperform others and the gap between your underperforming property and those investment-grade properties will only widen. 
Do you own the type of properties that will allow you to take advantage of the next property cycle? 
If you own secondary properties or real estate in areas that are unlikely to benefit from strong capital growth, it may be worth selling up and replacing them with the type of property that will help you develop long term financial independence. 
4. Not managing your risk 
Growing your property portfolio will depend on you being able to borrow money to hold on to your properties and keep buying more. 
Therefore your ability to service your debts or to borrow additional funds would be a potential risk to you. 
Not being able to service your loans could force you to sell a property. 
Not being able to borrow more would retard your wealth-creation opportunities. 
Of course the risk management solution to prevent this happening is to prepare budgets and cashflow forecasts, manage your exposure to interest rate fluctuations and maintain cashflow buffers. 
Smart investors don’t only buy properties; they buy time by having these financial buffers in their lines of credit or offset accounts, to not only cover their negative gearing but to see them through the ups and downs of the property cycle. 
Another way sophisticated property investors secure their assets is to buy them in the correct ownership structures that protect their assets and legally minimise their tax. Most wealthy property investors own nothing in their own names but control their assets through companies or trusts. 
As Australia moves through the next stage of the property cycle, there’ll be tremendous opportunities for investors to build a substantial property portfolio and gain financial independence. 
The cycle is giving us a gift at the moment. With increased market uncertainty and less demand from buyers, many properties are “on special.” 
Let’s make sure we learn the lessons from the past to help us secure our future.
Michael Yardney is the director of <a href="https://www.metropole.com.au/">Metropole Property Investment Strategists</a> , a best-selling author and one of Australia's leading experts in wealth creation through property. He also writes the <a href="https://www.propertyupdate.com.au/">Property Investment Update</a> blog.
 
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Four common mistakes property investors should avoid

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HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham is sticking with his forecast of one more interest rate cut by June. 
According to Bloxham risks to the global economy are still “skewed to the downside”, with Europe remaining a “potential source of shocks for some time yet” and the recent spike in the oil price a “key risk to the fledgling US recovery”. 
Currently though, Bloxham says the RBA “must be feeling comfortable at the moment”. 
“The economy is in pretty good shape, at least in aggregate. Rates are around neutral, inflation is on target, the labour market is holding up well, so far, and the global situation has stabilised.” 
Bloxham says the Monetary Policy Statement made by RBA governor Glenn Stevens following the announcement reiterates that “should demand conditions weaken materially, the inflation outlook would provide scope for easier monetary policy”. 
According to Bloxham picking direction for the next move in rates “relies critically on the global outlook and developments in the domestic labour market”. 
The February labour market figures – out on Thursday – will be a key guide to future cash rate decisions, says Bloxham because “history suggests [the RBA] tend to respond to a rising unemployment rate with rate cuts”. 
“On the domestic labour market, we still expect that the weaker parts of the two-speed economy – those in the 'slow lane' – will more than offset the parts in the 'fast lane', in terms of employment growth, such that the overall unemployment rate still rises from here,” says Bloxham. 
“On the flip side, the upside risk to rates stems from the fact that productivity growth has been very weak in recent years. Unless there is a pick-up in productivity, inflation pressures will build as demand seeks to run ahead of a weaker supply-side of the economy.”
 
 
 
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One more rate cut likely by June: HSBC’s Paul Bloxham

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The Reserve Bank did as was predicted by most in the market and left official rates unchanged. Now there’ll be a still novel wait to see whether the major banks do the same.
Last month of course, long-standing practice was broken when the ANZ, acting on its new policy of determining its mortgage rate independently of the RBA, raised its home loan rate by a modest six basis points despite the RBA sitting on its hands and was promptly followed by 10 basis point increases by Westpac and Commonwealth and nine basis points by NAB. 
Friday week, ANZ’s interest rate committee will meet according to its new schedule of the second Friday of each month to decide whether or not to move again. Logically ANZ’s peers should wait to see whether or not it does. First movers tend to attract a disproportionate share of the odium.
While there might be a temptation to tinker with the rates and add a few basis points to play catch up with its peers – and reinforce the message to its customers that its rates may now move, in either direction, independently of the RBA’s decisions on official rates – ANZ would be reluctant to ignite another bout of bank-bashing.
The majors’ fiercest critic, Wayne Swan has been diverted into beating up on some hapless mining billionaires who had the temerity to criticise the world’s greatest treasurer publicly (their less wealthy and more timid peers sensibly tend to say similar things in private) so why re-direct his ire to the banks?
More to the point, while – as the RBA noted again today – bank funding costs remain higher, relative to benchmark rates, than they were in the middle of last year, they have fallen back somewhat from their levels earlier this year and the banks did have their little out-of-cycle rate rises last month to relieve some of the pressure on their net interest margins. They have also been finessing deposit rates and business loan rates.
With demand for credit remaining weak the banks will also be conscious that they wouldn’t want to drive down that demand any further by raising rates unnecessarily. The marginal home loan remains, however, very marginal from their perspective.
Perhaps more encouragingly for the banks, the RBA did note that having fallen (albeit in a gentle and orderly fashion) through 2011, there are some signs that housing prices are stabilising within a still-soft market.
The RBA was also relatively sanguine about the international environment – still a major determinant of their access to and cost of wholesale funds – and noted that capital markets were again supplying funding to companies and well-rated banks.
The RBA said recent information was consistent with the expectation that the world economy would grow at below-trend pace this year but did not suggest a deep downturn was occurring. It referred to a considerable easing of the acute pressure on European banks as a result of the actions taken by policymakers – presumably the massive infusions of extremely cheap liquidity from the European Central Bank.
It hasn’t, however, ruled out Europe as "a potential source of shocks for some time yet". If there’s another flare up in Europe, and funding markets seize up or wholesale funding costs spike again, the pressure on the banks to move in the opposite direction to the RBA – which referred today for the scope to further ease monetary policy given the benign outlook for inflation – would once again mount.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/">Business Spectator.</a>
 
 
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Another round of bank bashing?: Stephen Bartholomeusz

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The RBA has backed off from its interest rate easing bias and is now “firmly ensconced on the sidelines”, according to Commonwealth Bank chief economist Michael Blythe.
“The cash rate remains at 4.25%. And the hurdle for another cut appears quite high,” he says.
Blythe says Reserve Bank is unlikely to cut rates again soon.
“The ‘no change’ decision in February (7 February) came with a caveat that economic prospects would have to ‘weaken materially’ to justify another policy move.
“RBA forecasts in the February Statement on Monetary Policy (February 10) showing trend growth or better over the next few years underlined the case for ‘no change’.
“As did the warning by RBA deputy governor [Philip] Lowe (February 16) that some further moderation in domestic price pressures was ‘required’ to keep inflation consistent with the 2-3% target over the medium term.
“Governor [Glenn] Stevens further upped the ante in his semi-annual Parliamentary testimony (24 February) when he observed that ‘monetary policy cannot remove the forces generating different paces of growth in our economy’,” Blythe notes
“The chronology here is one that involves slowly lifting the bar for another rate cut. Today’s statement fits in with that shift,” Blythe says.
The bank is sticking with its forecast of a rate cut in May as an acknowledgement of the risks of economic deterioration in the US, Europe and China.
CommSec is also tipping a rate cut in May, but its chief economist, Craig James, says the timing could be brought forward if the European debt crisis were to turn ugly.
In addition he says the Aussie dollar is now on the Reserve Bank’s radar screen and could also prompt a rate cut.
“If commodity prices fall but the Aussie doesn’t budge then this would represent a tightening of conditions, possibly prompting a Reserve Bank rate cut,” says James.
But, he says, if interest rates are left unchanged for a few months and global financial markets continue to settle “then businesses and consumers will have more confidence to spend, borrow, invest and employ”.
“We expect that home building will lift over 2012 in response to tight rental vacancy rates, low interest rates, a firmer job market and rising migration,” he says.
 
 
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RBA seems set to sit on the sidelines for some months yet to come: CBA’s Michael Blythe

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The economy is travelling around “trend”, inflation is sitting in the middle of its target band, and market lending rates are about where they need to be. To this line of thinking, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/economy/cash-rate-is-priced-to-perfection-christopher-joye/2012030553687">rates are priced to perfection</a>, or as close to perfection as one could reasonably expect to get.
The RBA made the right call by keeping rates unchanged today.
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Christopher Joye’s video take on RBA decision

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The number of permanent settlers entering Australia hit a 41-month high of 14,210 in January, according to the RBA.
During the past year 146,430 people came to Australia as permanent settlers – a two year high.
Retailers, builders and building material suppliers will celebrate the lift in migrant numbers, according to Craig James, chief economist at Commsec.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/commsec2.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/commsec2thumb.gif"></a>
“Simply if there are more people arriving in Australia to work, that means there will be greater demand for homes, cars, household appliances and a raft of other goods and services.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/commsec1.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/commsec1thumb.gif"></a>
“Population is power, lifting economic growth and momentum,” he says.
The number of people settling permanently in Australia hit the highest levels in 3½ years in January.
About 14,000 people are arriving each month, compared with lows of around 9,500 a month in late 2010.
 
 
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Permanent migrant numbers hits 41-month high: CommSec and ABS

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The Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) has expressed disappointment at the decision by the Reserve Bank to leave interest rates on hold today.
“A rate cut would have assisted those struggling with a mortgage and would have also been the catalyst needed to encourage first home buyers into the market,” says REIA president Pamela Bennett.
“Although a number of publications have reported an ongoing improvement in housing affordability over the past twelve months, the change we are seeing is not significant and rates are an important component in the level of housing affordability.
“REIA will release the Deposit Power Housing Affordability Report tomorrow and we are not expecting to see a considerable change in housing affordability which highlights the need for further rate cuts,” says Bennett.
RP Data’s residential research director Tim Lawless says capital city home values were down just 0.2% over the three months leading up to today’s interest rate decision; “virtually a flat housing market and the smallest quarterly decline in home values since March last year”. 
“A return to stability in the housing market is precisely the outcome the RBA have been aiming for with respect to housing market conditions. 
“The full impact of the rate cuts from November and December last year is yet to be seen, however to date there has seen a subtle improvement in transaction numbers prior to the Christmas slow down,” he says. 
“Based on the recent data flows it is becoming increasingly clear that the housing market is likely to be less of a concern to the RBA. 
“Housing finance data from the ABS has also been trending upwards, suggesting we are likely to see the number of home sales continue to show modest increases over the coming months,” Lawless says. 
“Mortgage arrears appear to be in check, home values are stabilising and transaction volumes are starting to tick up. 
“Any future downwards movement in the cash rate is likely to be more reflective of ongoing global uncertainty rather than a response to a further slowdown in housing market conditions. 
“In fact, we believe that the RBA is likely to be quite comfortable with the current state of Australian housing market but will continue to closely monitoring conditions over the coming months to measure the ongoing effect of the interest rate environment on borrowing and value movements,” he says. 
RateCity.com.au CEO Damian Smith says borrowers should budget for further independent rate increases from lenders. 
“Forty-five lenders hiked their variable home loan rates by an average of 12 basis points despite the Reserve Bank keeping the cash rate on hold last month,” says Smith. 
“The rates that borrowers pay have been creeping away from the Reserve Bank’s cash rate movements since the global financial crisis. 
“Last month proves that all variable rate mortgage holders are vulnerable to rate hikes, regardless of what the RBA does,” he says. 
RateCity’s first-home buyers index, released just prior to today’s RBA’s board meeting, found that while the total number of first-home buyers last year was well below the average for the past decade, the proportion of first-home buyers hasn’t been this high for almost two years.
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Rate cut still needed to help borrowers, says REIA

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RBA governor Glenn Stevens has released <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rba.gov.au">his statement</a> explaining the decision to leave rates on hold today.
At its meeting today, the board decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 4.25%.
"Recent information is consistent with the expectation that the world economy will grow at a below-trend pace this year, but does not suggest that a deep downturn is occurring. Several European countries will record very weak outcomes, but the US economy is continuing a moderate expansion. Growth in China has moderated as was intended, but on most indicators remains quite robust overall. Conditions around other parts of Asia softened in 2011, partly due to natural disasters, but are not showing signs of further deterioration. Some moderation in inflation has allowed policymakers in the region to ease monetary policies somewhat. Commodity prices declined for some months and are noticeably off their peaks, but over the past couple of months have risen somewhat and remain at quite high levels.
"The acute financial pressures on banks in Europe have been alleviated considerably by the actions of policymakers, though there is more to do to put European banks and sovereigns onto a sound footing for the longer term and Europe will remain a potential source of shocks for some time yet. Financial market sentiment has continued to improve in recent weeks and capital markets are again supplying funding to corporations and well-rated banks, albeit at costs that are higher, relative to benchmark rates, than in mid 2011.
"Most information on the Australian economy continues to suggest growth close to trend overall, with differences between sectors and considerable structural change. Labour market conditions softened during 2011 and the unemployment rate increased slightly in mid year, though it has been steady over recent months. CPI inflation has declined as expected and will fall further over the next quarter or two. In underlying terms, inflation is around 2½%. Over the coming one to two years, and abstracting from the effects of the carbon price, the Bank expects inflation to be in the 2% to 3% range. This forecast embodies an expectation that productivity growth will improve somewhat as a result of the structural change occurring in the economy.
"Interest rates for borrowers have generally risen slightly since the board's previous meeting, but remain close to their medium-term average. Credit growth remains modest. Housing prices have shown some sign of stabilising recently, after having declined for most of 2011, but generally the housing market remains soft. The exchange rate has risen over recent months, even though the terms of trade have declined.
"With growth expected to be close to trend and inflation close to target, the board judged that the setting of monetary policy remained appropriate for the moment. Should demand conditions weaken materially, the inflation outlook would provide scope for easier monetary policy. The board will continue to monitor information on economic and financial conditions and adjust the cash rate as necessary to foster sustainable growth and low inflation."
 
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Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

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

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