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

<html><body>
<table width="388" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
Rental median asking rent for houses
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
2450
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
KORORA
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
$450
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
2450
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
SAPPHIRE BEACH
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
$430
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
2452
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
SAWTELL
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
$397.50
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
2456
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
SAFETY BEACH
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
$387.50
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
2456
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
EMERALD BEACH
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
$380
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
2445
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
LAKE CATHIE
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
$380
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
2450
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
NORTH BOAMBEE VALLEY
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
$362.50
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
2450
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
COFFS HARBOUR
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
$360
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
2444
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
PORT MACQUARIE
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
$360
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
2445
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="157">
BONNY HILLS
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="163">
$360
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: RP Data
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Top 10 most expensive suburbs on the NSW mid-north coast for house rentals: RP Data

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Melbourne’s industrial rents topped quarterly growth in the Asia Pacific region, according to the latest report by CBRE.
Melbourne’s warehouse rents grew 1.4% in quarter three, to $83.2 per square metre per annum.
This isn’t close to Sydney’s industrial rents, which are at $125.8 per square metre despite a year-on-year decrease of 0.9%. They increased 0.3% in quarter three.
Rental growth in Melbourne was driven by rent rises in the west and inner suburban market, with Melbourne’s overall industrial prime rental now averaging $84.50 per square metre, the report found.
“While leasing activity has remained relatively subdued there is a lack of available, quality stock in prime locations and this has been driving rental growth,” says CBRE regional director of industrial and logistics services Joshua Charles.
“Demand is being driven by logistics and distribution groups and is focused on the west, where cheaper land values are helping to facilitate design build projects and pre-leasing activity.”
The report found that rental growth has accelerated through the wider Asia Pacific Region, with CBRE’s Logistics Rental Index growing by 2% quarter-on-quarter in the third quarter, following 1.4% growth in quarter two.
“This growth was largely due to the strong performance of key Greater China markets, where retailers have been competing to secure quality logistics space in prime areas in anticipation of the peak retail sales period during the lunar new year in January,” the report found.
In Sydney the west sub-region continues to attract occupiers with cheaper land that is close to major transport links.
Sydney’s prime industrial rents remained stable in quarter three with a decline in demand from manufacturing groups offset by increased demand from distribution-related occupier.
“Secondary locations and properties which do not suit modern logistics operators will struggle going forward,” says Charles.
Brisbane experienced increased demand for new and larger units, particularly in well-located areas around the Gateway precincts, and this led to a slight growth in prime rents.
Resource-focused or distribution companies’ preference for modern facilities led to a fall in demand for secondary stock. Speculative development has remained on hold, with financial institutions still requiring a pre-commitment level of up to 80%, according to the report.
In Perth prime industrial rents remained steady as demand from resource-linked occupiers began to outweigh the decline in demand from manufacturing tenants.
Supply remained limited, particularly in the eastern sub-region for properties over 3,000 square metres.
“Given the tight supply pipeline, schemes targeting larger occupier requirements such as Jandakot City and Stockland Industrial Estate are reaping the rewards and land values could increase over the coming months, especially in light of a reported easing in financing restrictions,” Charles says.
Cautious occupiers in Adelaide led to limited demand for industrial accommodation but demand remained strong for well-located buildings close to the airport and in the north-west district. Buildings in secondary locations remained difficult to lease.
“Development finance and the lack of land available for sale remains the hurdles for Adelaide’s supply pipeline,” the report found.
In Canberra prime industrial rents remained stable but leasing activity was subdued. Capital values fell due to the softening of yields in Hume and Mitchell in particular, according to the report.
“Development is presently restricted to refurbishment projects, with very limited new development in the immediate pipeline,” the report found.
In the wider Asia Pacific area, rental growth accelerated in quarter three and capital values increased at a slower pace.
There were slight increases in land values in most Australian markets, with Melbourne recording the strongest growth.
 
 
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awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Melbourne industrial rental growth leads Asia Pacific: CBRE

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Australia is shifting from a nation of home owners to a nation of renters, especially among young people, according to the latest Roy Morgan State of the Nation Report. 
Just over a third (35.2%) of Australians aged 14 and over own their home outright or live in a family-owned home, compared with close to one in two (45.5%) who did so in June 1998.
<img src="/images/stories/roymorgan1.gif">
When borrowers are added to the mix and home ownership is taken to its broadest sense, ownership rises 66.9%, but even this is a significant decrease from the 73.2% recorded in June 1998. 
Home ownership is particularly poor among the youngest segments of the population, with just over a quarter (27%) of young couples owning a home outright or having a mortgage. 
Roughly half (47%) of young families own a house or have a mortgage. 
In comparison, 46%% of older households own their house outright and 32% have a mortgage. 
While home ownership has declined over the past 13 years, the proportion of the population that rents has increased rising from 25.5% to 30.7% over the same period.
<img src="/images/stories/roymorgan2.gif">
Norman Morris from Roy Morgan Research says the downward trend in home ownership is partly because of the increased proportion of population paying off mortgages. 
“This is most likely the result of either the increased trend to borrow against the home to do other things or housing affordability issues as a result of the boom in housing prices and interest rate increases," Morris says.
“Recently this downward trend in home ownership has accelerated, declining substantially by 2.3% points in the last two years.”
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Australian home ownership dream fading: Roy Morgan

<html><body>
Ratings agency Moody's says Australia's housing prices and mortgage debt levels are "arguably at unsustainable levels", and says prices may tumble either in the short-term – if the European debt crisis worsens – or in the medium-term, as default and delinquent rates rise.

Moody's lead analyst for the mortgage insurance sector, Ilya Serov, says the "combination of elevated house prices and unprecedented household indebtedness warrant in our opinion a degree of caution".
"The degree of sensitivity of the housing market to a serious economic downturn, given these two factors, has not been tested. We believe it could be materially higher than in previous historical episodes," he says.
"The recent experience of the US and certain European countries serves a useful cautionary reminder."
Describing the data on the sustainability of Australian housing prices as "ambiguous", Moody's says its baseline expectation is "that of further declines, both in the short- and medium-term".
According to Serov, challenges include:
<ul>
<li>Australia's reliance on resources.</li>
<li>Australia's banks reliance on external wholesale funding.</li>
<li>The high Australian dollar pressuring other sectors such as tourism and retail. He says: "Should these trends persist, default and delinquency rates in the mortgage market are likely to be variably regionally and increase in the next decade."</li>
</ul>
Serov notes that capital-city prices have quadrupled and household indebtedness tripled in the past 20 years.
"The market is undergoing a (to date) mild correction with a decline of approximately 4% off peak values nation-wide and up to 9.5% in Brisbane," Serov writes.
"Housing credit growth has fallen to around a third of pre-crisis levels. Our baseline expectation is that of further declines, both in the short and medium term."
Serov says although he expects economic conditions to remain supportive in 2012, the "potential for contagion from the Eurozone crisis represents a material downside risk".
He adds that although the jury is out on whether the European sovereign crisis will drive economic weakness and provide a shock to the local financial sector, Australia's reliance on resources and the dependence of local banks on wholesale funding "increase the Australian economy's sensitivity to exogenous shocks".
Moody's further notes that the "excellent performance of Australian mortgage loans to date is beginning to be challenged, with 30 days past due delinquencies reaching their highest value of 1.76% in May 2011" – versus the 1% recorded prior to 2005.
Serov put the Australian mortgage insurance sector – dominated by QBE LMI and Genworth Financial ¬– on outlook negative, citing concerns about the "medium-term performance of the country's housing market".
The report comes as The Age reports that Australia's big banks have been working on a contingency plan to ensure funding lines stay open should the Eurozone break up.
The newspaper says chief financial officers at the banks are understood to have updated their internal risk models, raise liquid-asset levels and reopened private funding placement channels with large investors in Asia.
This article originally appeared on<a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank"> SmartCompany</a>.
 
 
</body></html>

House prices “arguably at unsustainable levels”: Moody's 

<html><body>
Perth house prices have fallen at nearly four times the national rate, according to the latest Market Facts report by the Real Estate Institute of Australia.
Houses in the Western Australian capital have declined 6.3% over the September quarter to be down 8.2% over the past 12 months, with the median sales price declining $40,000 from $490,000 to $450,000 from September 2010 to September 2011.
By comparison, median capital city house prices have declined by $11,000 over the past year, with values down 3.7% over the September quarter (reversing a gain of 1.2% in the June quarter) to be down 2.3% over the past year.
The median capital city house price now stands at $521,000 compared with $533,000 a year ago.
Reflecting the current stagnant state of the market, the total number of home sales decreasing by 3.9% over the quarter to 54,529.
Home owners and investors are not the only ones struggling in Perth. The rental market has also taken a hit, with the vacancy rate declining by 0.6% to 2.8% over the quarter, the biggest fall of all capital cities.
Rents for three bedroom houses in Perth increased 2.6% over the quarter to be up 5.3% over the year to $400 per week, the largest annual increase of all capital cities.
Melbourne house prices declined 2.8% over the quarter, but it remains the only capital city where values have risen over the past 12 months – the median house price now stands at $551,000 compared with $543,500 a year ago.
The largest annual decrease has been in the depressed Hobart market, where prices are down 9.2% for the year ($345,000) followed by Darwin (8.2% to $507,000) and Brisbane (4.5% to $427,500).
Sydney house prices are down a modest 1.8% to $637,600 and more than $115,000 above the national average of $521,000. Sydney’s vacancy rate tightened further, falling by 0.1% to 1.4%.
<img src="/images/stories/reiadec14.gif">
The median prices of “other dwellings” (units, flats, townhouses, terraced housing, etc) declined by a more modest 1.4% to $424,176 during the September quarter, with prices virtually unchanged over the past 12 months.
Adelaide has recorded the greatest fall in unit prices, which are down 6% for the year following a drop of 4.8% over the quarter.
Darwin (2.4%), Sydney (0.6%) were the only capital cities to record modest rises in unit prices.
<img src="/images/stories/reiadec142.gif">
REIA president Pamela Bennett says the quarterly figures indicate the “has softened slightly”.
She notes that the quarterly figures do not reflect the rates cut in November and December, which she anticipates “will bring positive results for the residential property market by improving the level of activity in the market, in particular, the level of first home buyers entering the market”.
Other key findings of the report:
<ul>
<li>Over the September quarter, rents for three bedroom houses remained unchanged in all capital cities except for Perth and Darwin, which increased 2.6% and 0.9% respectively. 
</li>
<li>Rents for three-bedroom houses remain the highest in Darwin at $545 per week while Adelaide had the lowest rent for a three-bedroom house at $320 per week. 
</li>
<li>Over the quarter rents for two-bedroom other dwellings remained unchanged in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Hobart. Perth and Darwin recorded increases of 2.7% and 1.0% respectively. Rents in Canberra decreased 2.3% during the September quarter. 
</li>
<li>Sydney recorded the highest weekly rent for two-bedroom other dwellings at $450 per week. Adelaide and Hobart recorded the lowest weekly rent at $270.</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Perth house prices declining at four times the national rate: REIA

<html><body>
<table width="303" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
Median unit price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
4560
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
NAMBOUR
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
$235,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
4551
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
BATTERY HILL
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
$250,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
4557
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
MOUNTAIN CREEK
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
$257,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
4551
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
GOLDEN BEACH
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
$257,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
4564
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
PACIFIC PARADISE
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
$287,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
4575
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
WARANA
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
$287,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
4575
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
MINYAMA
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
$289,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
4556
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
KUNDA PARK
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
$290,747
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
4565
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
TEWANTIN
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
$291,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="69">
4575
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="113">
WURTULLA
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="121">
$293,500
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 Source: RP Data
 
 
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The 10 cheapest suburbs on the Sunshine Coast for units: RP Data

<html><body>
Despite two consecutive interest rate cuts the construction industry might not begin to recover until late next year, experts have warned, after official figures showed housing starts fell in the September quarter.

The warning comes as the construction industry continues to suffer under their highest number of insolvencies in any industry. Yesterday, South Australian builder Candetti Constructions was also confirmed to have been placed in administration.
Housing Industry Association economist Andrew Harvey says yesterday's data showing a 12.1% annual decline in the number of new houses built in the September quarter should be taken in context with the most recent rate cuts – but also says it's a dire situation.
"We are coming off a low base. And in my personal view, those rate cuts were fundamental in turning around confidence."
"But the nervousness around the situation in Europe has really pervaded through the new home market and it might take more than the couple of cuts we've already had to pick up the starts."
In fact, Harvey says, any recovery may be a long way off, closer to the end of next year than in the next few months. With economists expecting another rate cut in February, Harvey says it'll take some time for the benefits to seep through the rest of the market.
"If you look at the national accounts data, it's showing there's not that much to the Australian economy," he says.
"It's going to take some time for these cuts to feed through. We're looking until around mid-2012 or even later, towards the end of next year, before things start picking up."
The situation comes as the industry continues to suffer the highest insolvency appointments out of any other sector. Over the past year several smaller businesses have fallen over, and some larger firms have failed as well, with Candetti in South Australia only the latest casualty<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/construction-group-candetti-constructions-placed-in-administration/2011121352829">.</a>
"The situation in construction is starting to feed into society in general," Harvey says. "You get the feeling that you don't want to see this continue for another eight months."
Harvey says the government needs to stop focusing on mining as the saviour of the economy, and recommends action to be taken for home owners. Despite rate cuts already announced, and possibly more on the way, he says it's time for some external assistance to get the industry moving.
"Home building is essential to having the economy growing again."
"With all of the uncertainty swirling around at the moment, it's probably at the stage where the federal government has to do something."
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/">SmartCompany</a>.
 
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pmcstafford-pr9eMARWoN

Housing industry warns interest rate cuts may not boost sector until late 2012

<html><body>
The unlisted Investa Commercial Property Fund (ICPF) is set to acquire half of 120 Collins Street, one of Melbourne’s most recognisable office towers, from its fund manager, Investa Property Group.
The fund will use the proceeds of a $110 million capital raising due to be completed this week as well as equity commitments of $175 million received earlier in the year to acquire 50% of 120 Collins Street for about $255 million, with the remaining $30 million to be spent on increasing its stake in 400 George Street in the Sydney CBD by 5.1% to 25%.
The Investa Property Group will retain 50% ownership of the office tower.
The investments will increase total assets under management in the fund to more than $1.6 billion.
Rising up 50 levels, 120 Collins Street Melbourne is a premium-grade office building with panoramic city skyline views and a total net lettable area of 64,831 square metres. It is at the “Paris end” of Collins Street with retail tenants including Louis Vuitton, Rolex and Armani. 
The office tower has been held by Investa since its 2003 when it acquired it at part of takeover of the BT Office Trust. 
In 1993, BT Office Trust paid $286 million to buy 120 Collins Street from the Grollos family (now Grocon). 
Located on the corner of George and Kings Street, 400 George Street is an A-grade office building with 51,222 square metres of net lettable area. 
ICPF fund manager Peter Menegazzo says the ability to access “quality assets” was a major factor in attracting the capital. 
“We were seeking to make a strategic acquisition in the Melbourne CBD, and are now set to acquire an interest in one of Melbourne's best buildings, in this very tightly held market,” he says. 
Menegazzo says both new and existing investors based locally and offshore participated in the capital raising.
The fund will seek to raise new equity in 2012 to fund further acquisitions.
</body></html>

Investa Commercial Property Fund to buy half of 120 Collins in Melbourne CBD

<html><body>
Sydney rental vacancies remained unchanged for the third consecutive month in November.
In the major regional cities, Newcastle vacancies declined, but increased in Wollongong, according to the Real Estate Institute of NSW.
November’s rental vacancy rate for the Sydney metropolitan area remained steady at 1.4%.
Decreases were recorded in Sydney’s inner and outer suburbs, while middle suburbs recorded a slight increase.
•             Inner suburbs (0-10km from CBD) fell 0.1% to 1.2%
•             Middle suburbs (10-25km from CBD), rose 0.1% to 1.7%
•             Outer suburbs (more than 25 km from CBD) fell 0.1% to 1.3%
Newcastle recorded a sharp decline last month, down 0.3% to 1.6% although in contrast, Wollongong recorded a 0.4% increase to 2.2%.
Across the Hunter region vacancy rates fell 0.3 to 1.4% and in the Illawarra region they rose 0.1 to 1.8%.
Vacancy rates fell on the Central Coast for the fourth consecutive month, down 0.2 to 1.5%.
The new president of the REINSW, Christian Payne, has called on government at all levels to work together to address the chronic shortage of rental accommodation.
“As 2011 comes to a close we are in exactly the same desperate straits as last year,” he says.
“In the last 12 months the percentage of available properties for rental has not even come close to breaking through the 2% barrier; that is an appalling outcome given our claim to being the ‘premier state’.
“It is incumbent upon government to act in a constructive and decisive way to tackle the rental crisis that is an entrenched part of New South Wales.”
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Rental vacancies fall in Sydney's inner and outer suburbs but rise in middle ring

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/september16rosebay]}
The Rose Bay harbourfront home of the late tourism industry entrepreneur Bill Bursill has been bought by a family member.
More than $16 million had been initially sought by Wayne Yates from Laing + Simmons Double Bay, but this was revised to $14 million hopes after a nearby $15 million Bayview Hill Road, Rose Bay sale provided contemporaneous comparative pricing during the marketing campaign.
The Bursill holding had a $13 million unimproved capital land value.
The family purchased the waterfront land in 1950 when it was being used as tennis courts. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/leisure-entrepreneur-bill-bursill-s-rose-bay-house-up-for-auction/2011091651576">The 1950s house </a>was built over two blocks, capitalising on its views down the harbour to the Harbour Bridge.
Having been predeceased by his wife, Valerie, Bill died in February this year, the day before his 96th birthday.
The house had been listed by his four children.
In the 1950s Bursill was instrumental in determining the site for a ski village at Thredbo, where his first Bursill Lodge was built out of a giant refrigerator cabinet bought at an Army disposal store. He also had another tourism lodge Rainbow Beach in Queensland, where his lodge, The Mikado, was established when nearby Noosa Heads was just a sleepy hamlet.
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