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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Anyone following the slew of property market data that has been released of late could be forgiven for being more than just a little bit confused as to how capital city housing markets have truly performed in the last quarter and over the past year.
This week the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/capital-city-house-price-slide-slows-in-december-quarter-with-melbourne-worst-performer-abs/2012020153211">ABS put out its capital house price for the December quarter</a> to round off a quartet of research houses (the others being RP Data-Rismark, Residex and Australian Property Monitors) to provide benchmarks on how our key property markets are performing.
While clearly each uses its own statistical methodologies in determining house price changes and median values, surely no property investor (no matter how savvy) has the time to study complex mathematical formulas and make an assessment as to which figures are the most accurate.
Two analysts looking at the<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/december-quarter-housing-data-roundup-four-sets-of-statistics-give-divergent-outlooks/2012020153215" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/december-quarter-housing-data-roundup-four-sets-of-statistics-give-divergent-outlooks/2012020153215" target="_blank">different data sets</a> could come to quite different and legitimate conclusions about where a particurlar market is heading.
Take, for example, the case of Melbourne house prices.
Looking at the different data sets, one could come to believe that the house prices in the city are rebounding, slowly declining or in rather steep decline.
Australian Property Monitors says Melbourne prices rose 1.1% over the December quarter to be down only 3.1% for the year; Residex says they fell 1% over the quarter and are down 3.28% for the year and RP Data-Rismark says they fell 1.8% for the quarter and are down 6.8% for the year.
The research houses also come to very different conclusions about median house prices.
There’s more than a $100,000 difference between the RP Data-Rismark’s Sydney median house price of $535,000 and APM’s Sydney median house price of $637,000.
Darwin has a median house price is as high as $579,000 (according APM) or as low as $484,500, (according to Residex).
And then there are the revisions, which usually come a month or so after the data is released which can change the picture yet again.
For example, RP Data-Rismark revised November capital city house price growth from 0.1% to 0.4% (a four-fold increase), with economist Christopher Joye expecting Melbourne and Perth figures to improve when fuller house price data is released by tardy state valuer generals.
No doubt, property spruikers will welcome the divergence in data – they can just pick and choose which figures to quote at their next investment seminar and paint a thoroughly convincing picture.
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Divergent housing data raises more questions than answers

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The rate of decline of capital city house prices slowed in the final quarter of 2011, according to December quarter ABS House Price Index.
Preliminary estimates show the price index for established houses for the weighted average of the eight capital cities decreased 1% in the December quarter 2011 following a decline of 1.2% in the September quarter.
Melbourne and Adelaide replaced Brisbane as the weakest capital city housing markets, with both recording a 1.6% drop over the quarter.
<img src="/images/stories/absfeb11.gif">
Source: ABS
For the year (December 2010 to December 2011), capital house prices are down 4.8% led by Brisbane (down 6.7% for the year), Adelaide (6.4%) and Melbourne (6.1%).
Canberra (-2.6%) and Sydney (-2.7%) were the strongest performers over this period.
Perth was the strongest performer of the major capital city markets with a 0.5% increase a strong turnaround from a drop 1.3% recorded in the September quarter.
There were also house price gains in the smaller markets of Hobart (0.8%) and Canberra (0.7%)
Sydney house prices declined by 1% over the quarter.
The pace of house price depreciation in Brisbane slowed from a drop of 2.5% in September to a decline of 1.3% in the December quarter.
<img src="/images/stories/absfeb12.gif">
In the previous September quarter survey, Brisbane was the weakest capital city market (-2.5%), followed by Melbourne (- 1.7%) and Perth (-1.3%). Sydney (-0.2%), and Darwin (-0.4%) were the strongest performers.
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Capital city house price slide slows in December quarter, with Melbourne worst performer: ABS

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Housing market sentiment improved in the December quarter, with market participants now forecasting a modest 0.4% drop in house prices over 2012 compared with expectations of a 1% annual decline in the September quarter, according to NAB’s Quarterly Australian Residential Property Survey.
The outlook is brightest for New South Wales and Western Australia, with respondents forecasting growth of 0.8% and 0.1% respectively.
However, expectations for WA have dropped significantly since the last survey (the previous forecast was for growth in WA of 1.5%), which respondents attributed to “global uncertainty impacting on buyer confidence”.
According to NAB, the relative strength in NSW market reflects “the underlying lack of housing and associated costly rental market”.
The national average is being be held down by continued price weakness in Victoria (-1.3%), South Australia/Northern Territory (-1.2%) and Queensland (-1%).
Click images to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/nabfeb11large.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/nabfeb11.gif"></a>
<a href="/images/stories/nabfeb12.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/nabfeb12thumb.gif"></a>
The market is forecast to perform more strongly in 2013, with the NAB survey forecasting national house prices increasing by 1.2% by December 2013, compared with the previous quarterly forecast of 0.5% growth for the same time period.
By 2013, Western Australia is forecast to be the strongest market, with house price growth of 3.2% while Victoria is expected remain the weakest market with growth of just 0.3%. This is still a marked turnaround from a drop of 2.1% forecast in the previous survey.
Demand for all types of existing property strengthened slightly in the December quarter, while prospects for capital growth continue to be significantly stronger in the more affordable sub- 500,000 market than in the higher end of the market.
However, inner-city housing remains the only property type where demand is considered to be marginally “good”, led by strong demand in NSW. Demand for all other property types was categorised as “fair”.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/nabfeb13.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/nabfeb13thumb.gif"></a>
First-home buyers’ share of existing property rose slightly to 20% (up from 18% in the third quarter) “suggesting that lower interest rates and improved housing affordability may also be drawing new buyers into this market”.
“First home buyers were seen as being most active in NSW and least active in SA/NT,” says NAB.
The survey found that demand from Australian resident investors for existing property was unchanged at 21%, although investment demand was somewhat stronger in WA and Queensland. “Our survey suggests that these trends will continue over the next year, with a small fall in first-home buyer demand being offset by slightly stronger investment demand,” says NAB.
Overall, the NAB’s Residential Property Index – which is a combination of house price and rental expectations – moved back into positive territory in the December quarter with a reading of +1 point, after negative readings of -14 points in the third quarter and -5 points in the second quarter.
“This turnaround was supported by an improvement in overall market conditions in all states,” says NAB.
NSW (+31 points) and WA (+18 points) were the only markets recording a positive index with Victoria (-22 points) the weakest market, though up from -35 points in the third quarter.
Sentiment also improved in Queensland, though still in negative territory, rising from -40 in the September quarter to -18 in December.
According to NAB, the state is still feeling the impact from last year’s natural disasters.
The quarterly survey, which NAB has been conducting since April 2010, is based on a large external panel of respondents comprised of real estate agents/managers, property developers, owners/investors, asset/fund managers and valuers. 
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Housing market sentiment up in December quarter, with NSW brightest: NAB

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New home sales fell in December 2011, according to the Housing Industry Association.
The survey of Australia’s 100 largest builders recorded a 4.9% decline in seasonally adjusted sales during the month.
“New home sales were essentially flat over the December 2011 quarter, inching up by 0.2%,” HIA chief economist Dr Harley Dale says.
Building approvals will record a fall for the December quarter and new home loans will likely do the same, Dale says.
“Leading new housing indicators therefore ended 2011 on a weak note.”
<img src="/images/stories/hiafeb1.gif">
Detached house sales fell by 7.7% in December 2011 but rose by 2.1% over the quarter. Multi-unit sales jumped by 29.4% in the final month of last year, but dropped by 15.7% over the December 2011 quarter.
“The intensification of bad news regarding Europe, question marks over labour market prospects in Australia, and avoidable delay and uncertainty as to whether banks were going to pass on the Reserve Bank’s second rate cut conspired to drive a fall in new housing contracts as the holiday season approached,” Dale says.
He suggests the weakness revealed in the HIA - JELD-WEN New Home sales report reflects a combination of subdued demand and an excessive cost base driven by high and inefficient taxation.
“Short-term monetary and fiscal policy stimulus together with a revitalised program of longer-term structural reform is required in early 2012,” he adds.
The volume of detached house sales declined in three out of five mainland states in December 2011, falling by 4% in New South Wales, 10.5% in Victoria and 20% in Queensland.
Sales increased by 12% in South Australia and by 6.8% in Western Australia.
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

New home sales fell nationally in December 2011 but picked up in South and Western Australia: HIA

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The prestigious Aria Restaurant premises – occupying the prized position overlooking Sydney Opera House – is for sale through Colliers agent Stephen Kovacs.
The information memorandum indicates the restaurateurs Matthew Moran and Peter Sullivan retain an ongoing 10-year lease, which was signed in 2009.
The vendors are well-known eastern suburbs property investors Greg Shand and Danny Goldberg.
It’s a two-level strata space in the Opera Quays precinct underneath the Bennelong Apartments on Macquarie Street.
<img src="/images/stories/aria1.jpg">
The current annual rental is put at $889,000, plus an envisaged $319,000 annual turnover rental given the estimated $14 million turnover.
The turnover rent is based on recent trading figures arising from an 8% turnover rental above $10.5 million turnover, and at 10% above $12.7 million turnover.
<img src="/images/stories/aria2.jpg">
After expenses its projected net income for the landlord is put at $1.01 million during 2012.
The main outgoings are $106,000 in strata levies, $42,000 in land tax and $39,000 in council rates.
<img src="/images/stories/aria3.jpg">
It comes with 694 square metres of space, with the bulk of it being its 577-square-metre mezzanine level.
Depreciation items have a written down value of $655,000.
Aria, which has a two coveted chef’s hats, has been trading since 1999.
Offers close March 6 with Stephen Kovac.
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Landlord lists Aria Restaurant premises, but the two-hatted chefs are staying put in the kitchen

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What is the best news Australian residential property owners and share investors have received in the first month of 2012? That mainland Chinese have not deserted the inner-city apartment markets of Sydney and Melbourne.
You will remember that last November, Chinese purchases of inner-Sydney and Melbourne apartments off the plan suddenly halved (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/economy/the-sting-in-a-china-property-tale/2011112252489">The sting in a China property tale</a>, November 23).
The 2012 return of the Chinese to inner-city apartment buying will underpin the brighter figures we are seeing in the overall Australian dwelling market, as explained by Christopher Joye (Sydney housing streaks ahead of national market January 31).
Clearly the Chinese feared the severity of the funding squeeze back home, which made their Australian adventures so much more risky.
There was danger that if the squeeze on domestic China funding had gathered momentum, then the Chinese apartment downward trend would have accelerated, affecting the wealth of many Chinese property owners. 
Almost certainly that would have translated into further reductions in new Australian contracts. But if the China squeeze was severe enough, it might have also caused a large number of Australian partly-completed apartments – where the Chinese have paid 10% deposits – coming onto the market, because the Chinese walked away from the contracts as Australians did on the Sunshine Coast. And almost certainly, if events in China caused a pullback on Chinese buying of our apartments, then it would have also been reflected in much lower commodity prices as exports slowed. In turn that would have affected the share market. The man who exposed this danger, Australia's largest apartment developer, Harry Triguboff, says that while January is always a confusing month because there are two New Year celebrations, the Chinese are back in the Sydney market. Moreover, Sydney rental yields are rising. Australians were not major buyers of inner-Sydney apartments in 2011 but are now making inquiries. Triguboff says that another half a per cent fall in interest rates will bring Australians back in the market. Of course, while a half a per cent fall in the Reserve Bank’s official rate is on the cards for the first half of 2012, the turmoil in Europe has put the cost of overseas borrowing by the big banks above local Australian term deposit rates (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/Article/Interest-rates-deposits-RBA-house-prices-Mike-Hirs-pd20120127-QVQZQ?opendocument">Don't bank on mortgage rate cuts</a>, January 27). That means that mortgage rates will not fall by the same amount as official interest rate falls. As I have pointed out before, the Australian government can borrow overseas close to two per cent below the rates banks pay so, if they want to, the Australian government can borrow and lend the money to Australian banks, lower Australian rates, and take a nice profit on the way. But the Chinese don’t need Australian money to buy apartments and they are beginning to understand that landlords in Australia gain a much greater yield than those in China.
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/" target="_blank">Business Spectator.</a>
For more on Chinese investment in Australian property, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-foreign-investment-in-australian-property-markets" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
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rgottliebsen-VjLFh9nsD4

Harry Triguboff says Chinese buyers back in Sydney market in January: Gottliebsen

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There is something a little asymmetric about the RBA's response to a period of expected high inflation and one characterised by, say, target (i.e., not even low) inflation. Once the RBA lifted the cash rate to “mildly restrictive” in late 2010, it continued to forecast serious inflation problems right out to 2013. It was quickly confronted with those inflation challenges in both the first and second quarters of 2011. As previously parsed here, it got the yips and decided not to touch its rates lever (having, by its own admission, teetered on the precipice just before the August board meeting). At the end of 2010, and all through the first half of 2011, the governor of the RBA, Glenn Stevens, told parliamentary inquiries and anyone who would listen that future rate hikes would be few and far between. Words to the effect: expect long pauses between each increment higher. This is what the financial markets were pricing, and he did not want to disavow anyone of it. As it happened, we got no upward movement at all. We will only really learn in 2012 whether the bank has presided over a second major policy-setting error – the first being the 2006-2008 episode – by getting behind the curve on consumer price pressures. When the RBA is forecasting, say, trend or slightly less than trend economic growth, and inflation at or near the mid-point of its 2% to 3% target band, it has not hesitated to cut interest rates pre-emptively, not once but twice, into unequivocally stimulatory territory. After almost every economic metric it referenced when it last met in December has improved, and 2011 core inflation has remained stubbornly in the top half of its target band (not the bottom half as many hoped), a third, consecutive rate cut in February would imply a highly reactionary and pre-emptive effort to ward off slight softness in the Aussie economy. At a time when Australia's unemployment rate remains at a stunningly low 5.2%. It would suggest to me that the RBA has an asymmetric double standard when responding to inflation. It finds it hard to get rates high enough when inflation rises given community and political resistance to restrictive rates and the extremely dovish complexion of its board, which is dominated by private sector business leaders. But it finds it awfully easy to cut rates at the first sign of a deceleration in inflation – because, of course, all these vested interests naturally embrace lower rates. Cutting rates is an easy thing to do. The test of a central bank, as the Bundesbank knows, is keeping rates where they ought to be in the face on assorted community pressures. Glenn Stevens and Phil Lowe: this, my friends, is your legacy to make or break.
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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February interest rate countdown: Is the RBA weak at the knees?: Christopher Joye

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<img src="/images/stories/darwin.gif">
Median unit price of $395,000, reflecting a 6% rental yield
 
<hr>
  
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial;" src="/images/stories/brisbane.gif">
Median unit price of $375,000, reflecting a 5.6% rental yield
<hr>
 


<img src="/images/stories/canberra.gif">
Median unit price of $420,000, reflecting a 5.5% rental yield 
 
<hr>
 
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial;" src="/images/stories/sydney.gif"> 
Median unit price of $445,000, reflecting a 5.2% rental yield
 
<hr>
 
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial;" src="/images/stories/perth.gif">
Median unit price of $395,000, reflecting a 5.2% rental yield


 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/hobart.gif">Median unit price of $275,000, reflecting a 5% rental yield
 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/adelaide.gif"> 
 Median unit price of $320,000, reflecting a 4.7% rental yield 




 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/melbourne.gif"> 
Median unit price of $425,000, reflecting a 4.3% rental yield




 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/allcapitals.gif"> 
Median unit price of  $420,000, reflecting a 5.1% rental yield
 
The RP Data-Rismark median price is based on settled sales over the December 2011 quarter. Indicative rental yields are as at December 2011.


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Residential investment property: Capital city unit rental yields from best to worst

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<img src="/images/stories/darwin.gif">
Median house price of $490,000, reflecting a 5.6% rental yield
 
<hr>
 


<img src="/images/stories/canberra.gif">
Median house price of $535,000 reflecting a 5% rental yield
 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/hobart.gif"> 
Median house price of $340,000 reflecting a 5% rental yield 


 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/brisbane.gif">
Median house price of $435,000 reflecting a 4.8% rental yield


 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/sydney.gif"> 
Median house price of $535,000, reflecting a 4.5% rental yield


 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/perth.gif">
Median house price of $465,000, reflecting a 4.5% rental yield

 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/adelaide.gif"> 
 Median house price of $385,000, reflecting a 4.3% rental yield 


 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/melbourne.gif"> 
Median house price of $485,250, reflecting a 4% rental yield


 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/allcapitals.gif"> 
Median house price of  $470,000 reflecting a 4.4% rental yield
 
 
The RP Data-Rismark median price is based on settled sales over the December 2011 quarter. Indicative rental yields are as at December 2011.


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Residential investment property: Capital city house rental yields from best to worst

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Melbourne and Brisbane have assumed the “mantelpiece” of Australia’s poorest-performing capital city housing markets, according to RP Data senior research analyst Cameron Kusher.
The December Rismark-RP Data Hedonic house price index shows that Melbourne dwelling values are down 6.1% for the year and the same amount from their end of 2010 peak, while Brisbane values are down 6.8% for the year and 8.7% from their end of 2007 peak.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/rpfeb1large.gif"><img src="/images/stories/rpfeb1.gif"></a>
Kusher says both markets are now undergoing corrections after extended periods of capital growth.
“Melbourne had a very good run between 2007 and the middle of this year,” Kusher told the Australian Financial Review.
“We are seeing values in Melbourne declining fairly quickly. We expect the market to remain soft over the next 12 months, if not longer.”
Kusher says while the rate of decline in Brisbane has slowed somewhat, “dwelling values have not done much since the end of 2007, when values increased that year by about 35%”.
“Much like Perth did, Brisbane is undergoing a correction,” Kusher says.
Sydney was the strongest housing market in 2011, with values down just 0.3%, and Kusher tips Sydney to continue to be the best-performing market in 2012.
“[In Sydney] there are still problems with getting new supply out of the ground. There is still strong demand, even though population growth has slowed across the board – a lot of people are still moving to Sydney,” Kusher says.
According to Kusher, Perth has undergone something of a turnaround in the last quarter of 2011 and is now no longer performing worse than the Brisbane, as it has during the last four years.
Kusher also provided some insights into the oft-neglected Adelaide market, which saw a 0.1% drop in dwelling values in December and a moderate 2011 decline of 4.4%.
“The Adelaide market is fairly flat… The market tracks fairly closely what is going on in other capital city markets,” he says.
Taking a look at the market as a whole, Kusher says there is unlikely to be much property value growth over 2012.
“There may be some slight growth if we get further interest rate cuts but any growth will be below the rate of inflation,” he says.
“A market like Sydney will continue to plod along quite well comparatively speaking and later in 2012 we will start to see some improvement in the Brisbane market.
“[Overall] the performance of the housing market in 2012 will be slightly superior than 2011.”
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