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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Borrowers may have to wait several months for another rate cut, says the Commonwealth Bank.
CBA chief economist Michael Blythe expects that the RBA may cut rates again in May, as “the risks lie with an earlier move”.
Blythe says the RBA’s Statement on Monetary Policy made it was clear that “risks in <place>Europe</place> are still skewed to the downside” and that there “differences between domestic sectors”
“So if ‘demand conditions weaken materially’ there is ‘scope’ for easier monetary policy,” he says.
“Financial markets will continue to price in further rate cuts and the debate between economic commentators will lean in that direction as well.
“The terminal cash rate will depend mainly on how the European story evolves.  While that story is evolving the need for lower rates will be debated at every RBA meeting.  But a trigger is required.
“There are plenty of potential flashpoints.  Significant quantities of Italian, Spanish, Portuguese and Greek debt are due to mature over the February?April period.  Negotiations over Greek debt and a second bailout package need to be finalised soon.
“These events are risks and not part of baseline forecasts.  As a result, we have pushed back the timing of the next move to May, when we have a 4% cash rate pencilled in.  The risks lie with an earlier move,” he says.
HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham says the bank still expects further cuts from the RBA “given the global downside risks” with a cut forecast in March and one more in the second quarter of the year.
Bloxham says Friday’s Statement on Monetary Policy will help “elucidate” the RBA's thinking on today's decision.
Today’s statement, Bloxham says, “suggested that while the risks in Europe remain 'skewed to the downside' the 'acute financial pressures on banks in <place>Europe</place> were alleviated considerably late in 2011 by the actions of policymakers'”.
“Overall, they suggested that 'should demand conditions weaken materially, the inflation outlook would provide scope for easier monetary policy.' Clearly, they will be watching the global risks very carefully,” he says.
Westpac chief economist Bill Evans expects a 0.5 percentage point cut in the cash rate over the course of the first half of this year despite today’s decision. 
“While the case set out by the bank does not provide strong encouragement to expect a cut in March,  we believe that over the course of the next month the case will be sufficiently strong to justify another cut. Indeed it is our view that the case has already been established,” Evans says.
 
 
 
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RBA may not cut rates until May: Commonwealth Bank

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The decision by the RBA to leave rates on hold today will have a “benign” effect on the property market, according to Monique Sasson Wakelin, managing director of Wakelin Property Advisory. 
Her response is in strong contrast to the<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/economy/residential-building-to-suffer-from-rba-s-decision-to-leave-rates-unchanged-industry-bodies/2012020753282"> gloomy reaction from others in the property and mortgage industries</a>. 
Wakelin says the decision to keep rates unchanged sends a “positive message about the health of the Australian economy”. 
“The RBA is satisfied that the economy is robust by world standards and not requiring additional stimulation. The evidence of this is low and stable unemployment, inflation sitting comfortably within its desired range of 2% to 3% and the economy growing close to trend. 
“It is also clear that the RBA does not wish to stimulate a disproportionate increase in house prices, demand and finance that could ultimately lead to undesirable inflationary pressure and a yo-yo effect on prices and demand in the property sector,” she says.
 In keeping rates on hold at 4.25% Sasson Wakelin says the RBA has been “prudent in balancing up international and domestic conditions”.
“With a stable domestic economy and conditions abroad that are at least not getting worse, the RBA has adopted a wait and see approach.” 
“This stance provides the Reserve Bank more firepower to cut rates further should the eurozone debt crisis deteriorate or the nascent <country-region><place>US</place></country-region> recovery peter out over 2012. 
“On balance, we welcome the decision and believe the short- and medium-term impact of the announcement are benign,” she says.
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Effect of rate hold will be ‘benign’: Monique Sasson Wakelin

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So the RBA held interest rates steady at its February meeting, which is what I expected, characterising economic growth as “close to trend” and inflation “close to target”. I had previously argued that holding in February was a no-brainer from a pure policy-setting perspective.
However, the RBA operates in a world of complex practical constraints, the biggest of which is that the RBA’s board is, unusually, dominated by six private sector individuals with a natural bias towards lower rates, and the Treasury Secretary, who ultimately represents the government of the day and is typically regarded as being “dovish”.
We know as a matter of empirical record that former treasury secretary Ken Henry had battles with RBA board members Warwick McKibbin and Glenn Stevens during the GFC trying to push the target cash rate much lower than the RBA hawks wanted (its nadir was 3%).
Accounting for these real-world limitations on the RBA given its board complexion, I stated that I slightly favoured the RBA leaving rates unchanged.
But, rest assured, this was a massive surprise for both the financial markets and most economists. The markets were pricing in an 80%-plus probability of a cut only a few days ago, and it had gone as high as 100%. Only three of 27 economists surveyed by Bloomberg picked today’s decision, which is a telling statistic.
Some, like former prime ministerial advisor Stephen Koukoulas, felt there was a near-certain probability of a 25-basis-point cut, and a real possibility that the RBA cut by twice as much.
And then we have News Ltd’s Terry McCrann, who in four separate articles in the last two weeks stated that the RBA was “almost certain” to cut its cash rate today. I speculated publicly that McCrann was being “worded up” by either a private sector board member or politicians seeking to maximise pressure on the bank to comply. 
When McCrann predicts a result with a very high degree of confidence, the financial markets ordinarily fall in behind him. The bank has stated that it does not normally like “shocking” the markets (and expectations more broadly), and will sometimes rationalise its own moves by referencing the fact that the policy change was being anticipated in the markets.
With the recent pick-up in growth in the world’s largest economy, the rebound in the US labour market (where the unemployment rate fell from over 9% to 8.3% today), a very benign soft landing in Australia’s two major trading partners, China and India, and an only so-so domestic inflation report that left underlying consumer price pressure at 2.6% over the last year, sitting on the sidelines and waiting for more information made a great deal of sense.
Indeed, there has been some more positive tinges to the domestic data flows. For example, the ANZ job ads index surged 6% on Monday to a level that UBS analysis suggests should cause unemployment to remain static around its currently very low 5.2% rate (see chart).
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/joyefeb71.gif"><img src="/images/stories/joyefeb71thumb.gif"></a>
We have also seen more positive housing data, with national dwelling prices grinding out a slight seasonally adjusted rise over the months of November and December (taken together).
A more worrying development for the RBA has been partial information implying a return of inflationary pressures. The monthly TD Securities-Melbourne Institute benchmark has recorded a strong increase in its core measures of Australian inflation on a three-month annualised basis, as the chart below shows.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/joyefeb72.gif"><img src="/images/stories/joyefeb72thumb.gif"></a>
One interesting question is what the major banks now do. The RBA’s cash rate affects all forms of bank funding, one way or another. It directly affects the circa 60% of funding that is sourced from short-term retail deposits. It indirectly impacts the 30% of funding that is originated from the wholesale markets locally and overseas (via its influence on the yield curve). So the question is: do the banks unilaterally raise rates on the back of claims of higher funding costs? I don’t think so. Maybe ANZ nudges its rates up a tiny amount, just to make a statement.
The fact is, however, that funding costs and financial stresses more generally have plummeted in recent weeks. When CBA issued its $3.5 billion, AAA-rated covered bond in January, it paid a price of 1.75% over the swap rate. Today that same covered bond is trading 36 basis points lower at just 1.39% over the benchmark rate.
The broadest possible measure of Australian financial stresses, which is the “credit default swap index” produced by ITraxx, has declined strikingly from over 220 points in November last year to about 140 points today (see chart).
Click to enlarge
<img src="/images/stories/joyefeb73thumb.gif">
It would be a brave bank to undertake independent margin expansion in the face of this evidence.
Christopher Joye is a leading financial economist and a director of Rismark International and Yellow Brick Road Funds Management. The above article is not investment advice.
 
 
 
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chrisjoye-JYhJsTrNRC

RBA's decision to leave rates on hold the right call: Christopher Joye

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The Reserve Bank has come under heavy fire from the building industry and mortgage brokers for not cutting rates for third successive time at its February meeting today.
The two peak residential construction bodies, Master Builders Australia (MBA) and the Housing Industry Association (HIA), expressed disappointment at the decision and warned of its impact on the building industry and home-buying appetites. 
“Master Builders was disappointed that rates were not cut given the current poor conditions in the building industry,” says Wilhelm Harnisch, chief executive of MBA, following the decision. 
“Monetary policy needs to be more supportive to underpin activity in a building industry clearly stuck in the slow lane of the economy.” 
He pointed to the MBA’s December quarter national survey, which showed the building sector was struggling having lost the “cushioning effect of government stimulus programs”. 
“Sales and forward orders have fallen away dramatically as cautious clients, overseas events and difficulties accessing finance work against any upturn,” says Harnisch. 
“Lower interest rates are needed to restore confidence in the building industry and drive a private sector recovery in the housing and commercial building markets.” 
Harnisch says the building industry “was banking on a further rate cut to help boost confidence to stabilise an increasingly uncertain market”. 
“The Reserve Bank needs to reconsider its strategy and cut rates further to assist in driving a sustainable recovery in the building industry.” 
The HIA described the RBA’s decision as a missed opportunity to “bolster business and household confidence”. 
“A rate cut today would have been appropriate for current economic conditions, but sadly that decision was not taken,” says HIA chief economist Dr Harley Dale. 
“The global and domestic economic outlook remains clouded, within which new housing activity in <country-region><place>Australia</place></country-region> faces the risk of revisiting GFC lows.” 
Dale notes the widespread expectation for a cut and an increasingly aggressive debate regarding what <country-region><place>Australia</place></country-region>’s banks would and should do with a cut prior to the announcement. 
“Against this backdrop, leaving rates unchanged has the potential to weigh down on confidence and non-resource economic activity,” he says. 
“Borrowers seeking relief from the uncertain economic climate and cost of living increases will be disappointed the Reserve Bank of <country-region><place>Australia</place></country-region> has resisted the chance to lower official interest rates,” says mortgage broker Loan Market, part of the Ray White Group. 
Loan Market spokesman Paul Smith says most consumers had been expecting the RBA to reduce the cash rate again after cuts in November and December last year. 
Smith says a recent Loan Market consumer survey found the majority of respondents had been anticipating more reductions to the cash rate. 
He says the RBA likely held off reducing rates due to considerable mixed economic signals in the market <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/economy/inflation-data-should-encourage-rba-to-cut-rates-again-in-february/2012012953143">such as a mid-range target inflation rate of 2.4%</a>. 
“We thought the RBA could have applied a 50 basis points cut this month but they have taken a more cautious approach and still have plenty of room to move,” he says. 
“While the fundamentals of the Australian economy remain quite strong and consumer sentiment has been improving, sections of the economy can only benefit from the stimulus provided by lower interest rates.” 
Mortgage broker network 1300 Home Loan slammed the RBA’s decision and called it a “serious mistake”. 
According to managing director John Kolenda, there were so many downside risks in the economy that what was needed was a series of rate cuts, not for the RBA to sit on its hands with a hold decision. 
“With the banks’ costs of funding rising all the time and most sectors of the economy remaining weak, we need to see some real relief passed on to home owners,” he said. 
“This hold decision is a missed opportunity which the RBA will live to regret if the situation in <place>Europe</place> continues to deteriorate while consumer confidence here remains as weak as we have seen in recent months.”
 
 
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Residential building to suffer from RBA's decision to leave rates unchanged: housing industry bodies

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Some signs of improvement in global economic conditions, particularly in the US and Europe, expectations of the Australian economy to grow at trend and some signs of a stabilising housing market are some of the reasons the RBA has given for leaving the cash rate on hold today at 4.25%.
The full Monetary Policy Statement by RBA governor Glenn Stevens: 
“Information becoming available since the December meeting confirms that economic conditions in <place>Europe</place> were weakening late last year, with risks still skewed to the downside. Reflecting this, most forecasters have lowered their forecasts for world GDP growth this year to a below trend pace. That said, recent data from the <country-region><place>United States</place></country-region> suggest a continuing moderate expansion after a soft patch in mid 2011. Growth in <country-region><place>China</place></country-region> has moderated as was intended, but on most indicators remained quite robust through the second half of last year. Conditions around other parts of <place>Asia</place> have softened. Commodity prices declined for some months to be 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 <place>Europe</place> were alleviated considerably late in 2011 by the actions of policymakers. Much remains to be done to put European sovereigns and banks on a sound footing, but some progress has been made. Financial market sentiment, though remaining skittish, has generally improved since early December. Share markets have risen and term funding markets have reopened, including for Australian banks, albeit at increased cost compared with the situation prevailing in mid 2011. 
“Information on the Australian economy continues to suggest growth close to trend, with differences between sectors. 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, as the large rises in food prices resulting from the floods a year ago have been unwinding. Year-ended CPI inflation 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. 
“Credit growth remains modest, though there has been a slight increase in demand for credit by businesses. Housing prices showed some sign of stabilising at the end of 2011, after having declined for most of the year. The exchange rate has risen further, even though the terms of trade have started to decline. This is largely a reflection of a decline in the euro against all currencies. Nonetheless, the Australian dollar in trade-weighted terms is somewhat higher than the bank had previously assumed. 
“At today's meeting, the board noted that interest rates for borrowers have declined to be close to their medium-term average, as a result of the actions at the board's previous two meetings. With growth expected to be close to trend and inflation close to target, the Board judged that the setting of monetary policy was 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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Better global outlook, steady local economic growth and stabilising housing market help keep rates on hold: RBA  

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The Reserve Bank has surprised and disappointed home loan borrowers by leaving the cash rate unchanged at 4.25%.
The Australian Dollar reacted immediately rising to above $1.08 having opened at under $1.07. It has fallen back slightly since then trading around $1.078.
A 0.25% rate cut would have reduced mortgage repayments by around $50 per month for those with a $300,000 mortgage, though lenders were not expected to pass on the full rate cut.
NAB currently has the lowest standard variable rate mortgage at 7.22%.
ANZ offers a standard variable rate of 7.30% followed by CBA (7.31%) and Westpac (7.36%).
ANZ will make an independent announcement about interest rates on Friday.
The three-day wait for ANZ mortgage holders in February and March is due to the quirks of the calendar month (the RBA meets on the first Tuesday of each calendar month to make its interest rate call) – ANZ borrowers will have to wait 10 days from April onwards.
Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has also indicated that it plans to follow ANZ and move out of step with the RBA, with chief executive Mike Hirst reiterating the point that the official cash rate no longer strongly correlates with banks’ cost of funds.
Prior to the RBA announcement the major banks indicated they were unlikely to pass on the full rate cut putting out statements about increased funding costs. 
The decision to leave rates on hold comes as the mining sector booms but others like residential construction and retail continue to struggle. 
According to the Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Construction Index, construction activity contracting for the 20th consecutive month in January led by a slowdown in the building of apartments and commercial buildings. 
A rate cut was expected to deliver a boost to housing construction, where the pace of decline eased following the November and December rate cuts. Engineering construction with its strong ties to the resources boom remained the best performing construction sector. 
Retail sales declined 0.1% in December according to ABS figures, below consensus with Westpac expecting 0.2% gain over December.
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RBA leaves rates on hold and dollar rises

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<city><place>Sydney</place></city> registered the biggest monthly decline in property listings in January, with peak summer stock levels falling 15.9% from 34,000 to 29,000, according the latest figures compiled by SQM Research. 
All cities experienced the typically expected monthly drop in sales stock, with <city><place>Adelaide</place></city> experiencing the most marginal decline, falling by 0.3% month-on-month. 
Nationally property listings fell by 4.3% to just below 369,000, with SQM managing director Louis Christopher telling Property Observer the market volumes have most likely peaked. 
For the year to January listing are up 13.5% led by a 33.3% increase in <city><place>Melbourne</place></city> listings.
Christopher says seasonality is the biggest factor in the January decrease, though the drop was bigger than expected.
<img src="/images/stories/sqmfeb7.gif">
Source: SQM Research
“It does convince one that stock levels have peaked,” Christopher says.
“At the start of 2009, buyers quickly took out the low-hanging fruit – the same thing is happening now,” he says.
Christopher says February data will be crucial.
“If there is no pick-up in listings or a just a marginal increase, then it will indicate that something cyclical is happening.
“Then it will be clear to us there is something else is going on in the market, such as listings being absorbed by an increase in buyer activity,” he says.
Christopher says <city><place>Sydney</place></city> vendors are mos likely withdrawing their listings and preparing fresh marketing campaigns ahead of the February pick-up.
Christopher says not much should be read into the 8.3% month-on-month drop in <city><place>Melbourne</place></city> listings given how much they are up year-on-year.
According to SQM, <city><place>Hobart</place></city> recorded the largest yearly increase, climbing 40.9% since the corresponding period of the previous year (January 2011) and coming to a total of 4,558. 
<city><place>Darwin</place></city> recorded the largest yearly decrease, falling by 11.7% since the corresponding period of the previous year (January 2011) and coming to a total of 1,331. 
 
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Sydney leads national decline in stock on market in January: SQM

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The Commonwealth Bank is planning to sell the State Savings Bank of NSW building at <street><address>48 Martin Place</address></street>.
Along with the adjoining property at <street><address>9-19 Elizabeth Street</address></street>, it comes with reported expectations of achieving $150 million given its offered with development approval for the moderization of the offering. 
The building at 48 <street><address>Martin Place</address></street> is an iconic <city><place>Sydney</place></city> building and is on the National Heritage list. The bank will take a long lease back. 
<img src="/images/stories/martinplace1.jpg">
It has a distinctive terracotta and pink granite Beaux-Arts façade. It was originally built as the headquarters of the Government Savings Bank of NSW, which opened in 1928. 
The interior features large scagliola columns, extensive use of marble, and a plaster and pressed-metal ceiling. The building's square trading hall was originally one of the largest in the world. Its stately vault is housed in the basement. There had been a recent refurbishment by Tanner Architects within the bank headquarters. 
<img src="/images/stories/martinplace2.jpg">
In 2010 the CBA engaged project managers TSA Management to study the ongoing feasibility of its holding as part of the bank’s overall accommodation planning program.
The CBA’s nearby “money box” building, at <street><address>120 Pitt Street/5 Martin Place</address></street> partially changed hands last year when the industry superannuation fund Cbus bought a half share for $42.3 million from the bank's Commonwealth Property Office Fund. 
The site, on which the former Commonwealth Bank's famous tin money boxes were modelled, is to be redeveloped, which CPA and Cbus will jointly finance. The estimated cost is more than $405 million. 
At the end of the project, nine floors will have been added to the side of the heritage building, which runs down <street><address>Martin Place</address></street> and around the corner in <street><address>Pitt Street</address></street>. 
The sale was part of the Commonwealth Bank's decision to consolidate its <city>Sydney</city> city-based staff into the new properties at <place><placename>Darling</placename><placetype>Harbour</placetype></place>, known as <street><address>Commonwealth Bank Place</address></street>.
The Australian Financial Review forecast the 48 Martin Place holding with its adjoining office space might fetch $150 million.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Comonwealth Bank to sell heritage-listed State Savings Bank of NSW building 

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AMP Capital plans to reopen to investors the $760 million Wholesale Australian Property Fund, one of the many property and mortgage funds that have remained frozen following the GFC.
The fund manager took over as responsible entity of the retail property fund in November last year from previous manager AXA Australia.
AXA Australia froze the fund in November 2008.
AMP Capital has agreed to a planned asset sales program to increase liquidity in the fund.
Its most valuable asset is the Casula Mall Shopping Centre in the outer south west of <city><place>Sydney</place></city>, valued at $112 million, and the Bond Store One parking garage in The Rocks, valued at $72 million.
AMP Capital head of property funds management Chris Judd says the fund has delivered an average return of 9.25% over 27 years.
“We are excited we are in a position to re-open the fund,” he says.
“Property fundamentals remain steady and as we have seen before, direct property as an asset class performs well during uncertain economic times.”
“The fund will retain a strong income focus and low risk orientation. It will continue to invest in quality direct property assets and, as always diversification remains a key component.”
“We expect the fund will continue as an open ended fund with the aim of delivering reliable income and long term capital growth to investors,” he says.
The fund has a portfolio of 17 retail, commercial and industrial properties in Australian and <country-region><place>New Zealand</place></country-region>.
The fund delivered shareholders a total return of 7.5% for the year to October 2011.
 
 
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AMP to reopen unlisted retail property fund for first time since GFC

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Once you have carefully chosen your commercial property investment, and negotiated a great deal with the purchase, you then need to turn your mind to ensuring you extract the most from it during your time of ownership.
Therefore, you either need to know how to properly manage the property yourself or you engage some professional help to handle that for you.
And in the current litigious climate, there is no way you can possibly keep abreast of all the regulatory requirements relating to property ownership.
So your next question becomes: "How do I know whether a particular property manager is up to the task?"
To help you, here are the key areas where your property manager needs to be really well versed.
1. The market and the marketplace
<ul>
<li>Rental levels in your property's market</li>
<li>The balance of supply and demand in your market</li>
<li>Up-to-date records of properties, owners, tenants and service providers</li>
</ul>
2. Taxation (especially GST and capital gains tax)
<ul>
<li>Taxation advice in relation to repairs/replacement</li>
<li>Income management</li>
<li>Budget forecasting</li>
<li>Depreciation</li>
<li>Insurance</li>
</ul>
3. The laws governing ownership and leasing of property
<ul>
<li>Landlord and tenant legislation</li>
<li>Subdivision legislation</li>
<li>Essential service regulations</li>
<li>Lease preparation</li>
<li>Local Government Act</li>
<li>Rights of property owners</li>
<li>Trade Practices Act</li>
<li>Anti-discrimination Act</li>
</ul>
4. Trust accounting
<ul>
<li>Acts governing real estate agency practice</li>
<li>Basic bookkeeping principles</li>
<li>Cashflow management</li>
<li>Budget forecasting</li>
</ul>
5. Various legislative requirements
<ul>
<li>Health and safety matters</li>
<li>Essential services</li>
<li>Town planning</li>
<li>Building Code of <country-region><place>Australia</place></country-region>
</li>
<li>Fire regulations</li>
</ul>
6. Building and construction
<ul>
<li>Property maintenance</li>
<li>Building methods</li>
<li>Cost control</li>
<li>Alternative materials</li>
<li>Design and decoration</li>
<li>Market requirements</li>
<li>Optimum layouts</li>
</ul>
Chris Lang is an advisor to commercial property investors and gives keynote speeches and regular seminars on the best way to invest in commercial property. He maintains a blog, <a target="_blank" title="Chris Lang's blog" href="https://his-best.biz/">his-best.biz</a>, which he updates regularly about the best way to get the most out of your commercial property investment.
 
 
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