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="447" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"></table>
<table width="447" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
Median sale price for houses
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
CHARNWOOD
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
2615
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
$385,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
NGUNNAWAL
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
2913
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
$425,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
HIGGINS
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
2615
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
$427,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
RICHARDSON
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
2905
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
$430,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
MACGREGOR
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
2615
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
$431,250
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
HOLT
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
2615
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
$439,990
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
LATHAM
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
2615
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
$442,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
SCULLIN
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
2614
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
$455,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
CALWELL
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
2905
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
$458,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="114">
GILMORE
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="85">
2905
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="247">
$465,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Source: RP Data
 
 
 
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Top 10 cheapest suburbs in Canberra for houses: RP Data

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What's the most important economic question in the world today?
 
While many of us are concerned about the collapse of the euro or whether the US will fall back into recession, closer to home a more important question could be: will the China property bubble burst?
Anyone watching China in the last few years must be wondering if it is another bubble in the making. We all know that Australia’s future prosperity is substantially reliant on the resources boom, and a large part of that will depend on China’s growth.
What has all this got to do with property?
Well, the health of our property markets is intimately intertwined with our general economic prosperity.
Of course it’s not just Australia that relies on China. China's growing strength is essential to recoveries both in the US and Europe, as the country contributed 19% of the world's economic growth in 2010, and that's expected to increase to 24% this year. 
The strains of the last three decades of growth are starting to show. 
There are now widespread reports of a property bubble in China, with stories of large cities full of new high-rise buildings that remain unoccupied. “Ghost cities” are signs of a property bubble in anyone’s language. 
And the Chinese factories that make things the world wants are having difficulty competing with other Asian countries that can now churn out goods more cheaply. 
In response the Chinese Communist Party has been attempting to put a damper on the debt-fueled real estate boom as part of a deliberate attempt to rejig the Chinese economy into one that relies more on a domestic service sector and less on manufacturing and exports.
What would a China slowdown mean to us?
It’s already started. China's economy grew 9.1% in the third quarter of the year, the slowest pace in two years.  
This has some analysts asking if the bubble will burst or if there will be a soft landing.
Economists disagree on the answer.
Only time will tell, but China's economy expanded 10.4% last year and growth is forecast to slow to 9.5% this year. 
But remember, this is six times the pace of the US and euro area, according to the International Monetary Fund. Expansion of 9% in 2012 will be eight times as fast as the group of 17 nations that share the European currency, it forecasts.
Let’s put it into perspective 
Here are some more numbers quoted earlier this year by as ANZ’s Paul Braddick as he explains what could happen in China between now and 2025
<ul>
<li>350 million more people will move to the cities – 103 million have moved to urban areas since 1990</li>
<li>221 Chinese cities will have 1 million-plus people living in them – the whole of Europe has 35 today</li>
<li>1 million kilometres of new road and 28,000 kilometres of metro rail will be laid</li>
<li>170 mass-transit systems will be built – twice the number that all of Europe has today</li>
<li>40 billion square metres of floor space will be built in 5 million buildings</li>
<li>50,000 skyscrapers (30 storeys or more) will be built – the equivalent of building two cities the size of Chicago every year</li>
<li>97 new airports will be built</li>
<li>One in seven planes assembled by Boeing and Airbus will be delivered to China</li>
<li>1,000 megawatts of coal-fired power capacity will be commissioned every week - equivalent to 4 million tonnes of new coal demand</li>
<li>One wind farm turbine will be built every hour and a half</li>
</ul>
Now if those numbers haven’t blown you away…
I found some of these numbers <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/china-business/8311283/Growing-out-of-control-China-by-numbers" target="_blank">in The Telegraph</a> interesting reading: 
<ul>
<li>1.3 billion – China’s population as at 2009</li>
<li>10.3% – China’s GDP growth in 2010</li>
<li>$US183.1 billion – China’s trade surplus in 2010, a decline of 6.4% compared with the previous year.</li>
<li>6.06% – China’s official one-year lending rate, up 25 basis points from 5.81%. China last raised interest rates on Christmas Day last year.</li>
<li>3% – China’s official deposit rate</li>
<li>4.6% – China’s rate of inflation in December 2010, down from a 28-month high of 5.1% the month before. Inflation for 2010 as a whole was 3.3%.</li>
<li>7.2% – Official food price inflation in 2010.</li>
<li>73 years – Life expectancy of someone born in China in 2008, up from 71.3 years in 2000 and 46.6 years in 1960.</li>
<li>4.1% – China's unemployment rate as at the end of December 2010.</li>
<li>42 million – The projected population of China's newly planned “mega-city”. If projections are correct, the city would be 26 times bigger than the greater London area and twice the size of the entire country of Wales.</li>
<li>94% – Literacy rate of people aged over 15 in China. This compares with 65.5% in 1982.</li>
<li>$36.4 billion – Amount of new loans the biggest state-controlled commercial lenders gave out in 2010, much of it for property development</li>
<li>70% – Increase in sales of land-use rights to developers in 2010</li>
<li>6.4% – Amount property prices rose in 2010</li>
<li>1 million – Number of people living in underground bunkers in Beijing</li>
<li>14.8% – Increase in retail sales in China during 2010</li>
<li>39 – Average age of Chinese millionaires, according to the Wall Street Journal
</li>
<li>8.4% – Average annual pay increase at multinational companies in China last year, according to a report by Hewitt Associates</li>
<li>1 million – Number of Chinese tourists who visited the US during 2010</li>
<li>500 billion yuan (£47.3 billion) – the amount of direct economic losses caused by extreme weather in China in 2010, according to the chief of the National Climate Centre</li>
</ul>
What’s ahead?
 The anticipation of a slowdown in the Chinese investment boom has fuelled a host of pessimistic projections about how China will crash and cripple the rest of the world.  
However Bill Mitchell, research professor in economics and director of the Centre of Full Employment and Equity (CofFEE) at the University of Newcastle, has a different view. 
He believes the Chinese government is totally on top of managing their economy, which sets it apart from the leaders in the advanced world. 
Mitchell says that China will not let a major economic crisis occur within their its borders, explaining that it has so much more scope to expand, although we will all rue the environment impacts of that expansion. 
Mitchell suggests their problems are going to political – taming an increasingly rowdy middle class. For the rest of us, China provides an economic example, according to Mitchell – when all other sources of expenditure fail, turn on public spending, do it quickly and don’t err on the conservative side.
We are in for some interesting economic times ahead. As always, savvy investors prepare for the worst and look forward to the best outcome.
Michael Yardney is the director of <a href="https://www.metropole.com.au/">Metropole Property Investment Strategists</a> , a best-selling author and one of Australia's leading experts in wealth creation through property. He also writes the <a href="https://www.propertyupdate.com.au/">Property Investment Update</a> blog.
 
 
 
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myardney-DFoGhGbSJX

China's economy slowing, but whether the bubble will burst remains to be seen

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Sydney has maintained its position as the city with the third most expensive retail rent while Melbourne has slipped one spot to number eight and Brisbane remains at number nine, according to CBRE.
Melbourne’s slight decline was despite it being globally the third-fastest-growing market, with rental growth in local currency at 32.3% growth for the year to September 30. It came in behind Hong Kong at 52.8% and Beijing at 40%.
“Melbourne started off at a low base and was further helped by many international tenants targeting this market, which has been cheaper and more easily obtainable than Sydney,” the CBRE report found.
“In Australia, global brands continue to open new stores, however many domestic retailers are consolidating as shoppers flock to the new foreign entrants in the market,” says CBRE global chief economist Ray Torto.
<img src="/images/stories/cbreglobalrents.gif">
Source: CBRE
Sydney’s commercial rent was €9,823 per square metre, Melbourne was €6,230 and Brisbane’s was €6,230 for the third quarter.
The list was topped by New York at €15,244 per square metre and Hong Kong at €13,601.
A limited amount of prime retail space available in Australia and competition from new market entrants pushed Australian cities up the list, according to CBRE regional director of retail services, Joshua Loudoun.
“Over the course of the next 12 months we would expect that the Australian markets would slip slightly down the rankings due to numerous challenges faced by domestic retailers, in particular the record levels of outbound tourism, together with increasing labour and utility costs that have placed further pressure on occupancy costs,” Loudoun says.
The impact of the Eurozone crisis on consumer confidence led to global commercial rents levelling off in quarter three, the report found.
Total global retail rents largely flat at -0.6% from quarter two to quarter three, with the Americas falling  2% and rents unchanged in the Asia Pacific and Europe, Middle East and Africa regions, the report found.
“This represents a significant slowdown from earlier in the year as retailers take a more cautious approach to expansion.”
Despite an uncertain economic outlook, retailers continue to expand their international store networks, the report found.
“The emerging markets, particularly Asia, provide attractive opportunities for growth, although prime locations in Europe’s biggest cities are also attracting a high level of occupier demand, as consumers increasingly target major destinations with the widest choice of retailers,” Torto says.
“Overall, however, retailers have been taking a more cautious approach to expansion, resulting in flat rental growth across the globe in the third quarter – a considerable slowdown from earlier in the year.”
 
 
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awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Sydney still number three for retail rents while Melbourne slips one spot: CBRE

<html><body>
Many would-be vendors whose properties have been on the market for more than three years are still unwilling to offer deep discounts to entice buyers, notes SQM Research in its latest list of the properties that have been on the market the longest.
"With only one significant discount – number five on the list, which is 290 Viveash Road, Swan View, WA (a property which has also been a regular on our top 10 most discounted properties), the remainder of the homes in this top ten have not been excessively discounted – considering you would assume their vendors may be becoming increasingly eager to sell," notes SQM director Louis Christopher.
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Houses are currently taking an average of 56 days to sell</a>, according to RP Data.
SQM's list coincides with a recent report by PRDnationwide that shows that in the Queensland suburbs with the largest drop in residential sales over the six months to June this year, house prices did not fall much. In other words, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/auctions/queensland-vendors-prefer-not-to-sell-at-all-rather-than-sell-at-a-deep-discount/2011112152454">vendors appeared intent on holding onto their properties </a>rather than selling in suburbs where prices were declining.
Christopher says that many of the properties' owners may be investors who have the luxury of time.
"Potentially some of these homes may be investment properties and if so, their owners may not need to vacate the property hastily or may not have committed elsewhere, so whether their home sells today, tomorrow or next year could potentially be of minor consequence," he says. 
However, he suggests that vendors may simply be unwilling to meet the market.
"Alternatively, there is always the possibility that these homes are cases which SQM Research has often referred to as 'stubborn Vendors' – owners who refuse to take any less than a certain amount of money for their property, regardless of the current market position because they are extremely reluctant to lose any money," Christopher says.
"The irony of this, of course, is that the longer their home is advertised the more likely they may have to discount it as house hunters are becoming increasingly cluey about market value and homes that have begun to go 'stale'.
"More often than not, when individuals see a home that has been advertised for an extensive period of time, they are either going to catch onto the fact that it may be overpriced or begin to think that there is something wrong with the property," he says.
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">1</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007103693">11 Ottiwell Street, Woorim, Queensland, 4507</a> (pictured)
On the market since: April 19, 2008
Initial asking price: $560,000
Current asking price: $499,000
Reduction: 11%
Days on market: 1,311
Last Sold For: $125,000 
Date of Last Sale: April 12, 2001
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;"></h2>
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">2</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007685342" target="_blank">5090 Tasman Highway, Buckland, Tasmania, 7190</a>
On the market since: May 18, 2008
Initial asking price: $250,000
Current asking price: $195,000
Reduction: 22%
Days on market: 1,283
Last Sold For: $68,500
Date of Last Sale: May 30, 2003
 
 
3
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007854879" target="_blank">19 Wellington Street, Oatlands, Tasmania, 7120</a>
On the market since: May 22, 2008
Initial asking price: $260,000
Current asking price: $205,000
Reduction: 21%
Days on market: 1,279
Last Sold For: $145,000
Date of Last Sale: November 22, 2003
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">4</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007162731" target="_blank">1403 Magenta Drive, Magenta, NSW, 2261</a>
On the market since: May 22, 2008
Initial asking price: $600,000
Current asking price: $535,000
Reduction: 11%
Days on market: 1,276
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">5</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007193295" target="_blank">290 Viveash Road, Swan View, WA, 6056</a>
On the market since: June 5, 2008
Initial asking price: $2.29 million
Current asking price: $1.45 million
Reduction: 37%
Days on market: 1,264
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">6</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2006717702" target="_blank">30 Charles Street, Triabunna, Tasmania, 7190</a>
On the market since: June 22, 2008
Initial asking price: $235,000
Current asking price: $195,000
Reduction: 17%
Days on market: 1,248
Last Sold For: $173,000
Date of Last Sale: November 15, 2005
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">7</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2006781491">22 Beach Street, White Beach, Tasmania, 7184</a>
On the market since: July 1, 2008
Initial asking price: $250,000
Current asking price: $195,000
Reduction: 22%
Days on market: 1,239
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">8</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007358900" target="_blank">186 Beenak Road, Gembrook, Victoria, 3783</a>
On the market since: September 5, 2008
Initial asking price: $1.025 million
Current asking price: $850,000
Reduction: 17%
Days on market: 1,171
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">9</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008048160" target="_blank">90 Franklin Parade, Encounter Bay, SA, 5211</a>
On the market since: December 1, 2008
Initial asking price: $1.55 million
Current asking price: $1.39 million
Reduction: 10%
Days on market: 1,085
Last Sold For: $675,000
Date of Last Sale: August 23, 2005
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">10</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007601490" target="_blank">28 Julia Street, Swansea, Tasmania, 7190</a>
On the market since: February 2, 2009
Initial asking price: $240,000
Current asking price: $215,000
Reduction: 10%
Days on market: 1,019
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;"></h2>
SQM Research also offers a list of the <a href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/top100bargains.php" title="SQM Research" target="_blank">Top 100 Biggest Bargains in Australia </a>for sale.
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The longest 10: Three years on the market, and not budging much on price

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Growing concerns about the Eurozone and recently announced plans by the government to cut spending over the next four years are likely to cause the Reserve Bank to cut interest rates on December 6, according to some economists, borrowers and market commentators.
In today’s mid-year federal budget update, Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan announced $11.5 billion in new cost savings over four years and a lower growth forecast for the economy as part of plans to return the budget to surplus by 2012-13. Economists say the tightening of government purses and the reduced growth outlook is likely to encourage the RBA to cut rates when it meets next week.
Shane Oliver, chief economist at AMP Capital, says the government’s commitment to bringing the budget back to surplus by tightening its spending is likely dampen business and household spending.
At the same time he says Australian banks have been warning that their funding costs have been increasing as the situation in European – and associated global credit markets – has deteriorated.
“If this intensifies, then there is a risk that banks may actually increase their lending rates – both business rates and mortgage rates – independently of the RBA. Such a move would result in a tightening in monetary conditions at the worst possible time. The best way to prevent it from occurring in the short term would be for the RBA to reduce its cash rate,” he says. Oliver expects the RBA to cut rates in December, arguing that waiting until February 7 (there is no monetary policy meeting in January) would be too high a risk due to “the increase threat from the Eurozone debt crisis, rising bank funding costs and increasing fiscal drag following federal government belt tightening”, all of which is set against a “benign inflation backdrop”.
“A further 0.25% cut in the cash rate (taking it to 4.25%) at its December meeting is justified and further rate cuts are likely to be required next year,” he says.
"There's a 60% chance they will, but I think 100% they should. The risks are just too great," he told the Sunday Telegraph.
 Ahead of the budget update, Alan Kohler wrote in his most recent Eureka Report that it was his belief that “there will now definitely be another rate cut in December”.
“The RBA has no choice. If there was a case for a cut in November, there is even more of one in December,” Kohler says.
An online poll carried out by Loan Market, the mortgage broking arm of Ray White, found that 39% of respondents – the highest proportion – expect rates to be cut again at the RBA’s December meeting, with 26% expecting a cut in early 2012.
Loan Market chief operating officer Dean Rushton says the RBA’s Melbourne Cup decision to cut the cash rate from 4.75% to 4.5% provides some clear direction for consumers, but more relief is needed in the lead-up to Christmas.
“There is no doubt they will need to cut further to continue to shore up confidence in the current global environment,” says Rushton.
“A recent survey we ran showed that the issues occurring in Europe were top of mind for consumers when considering their financial position and these issues are not going away and more cuts are needed to stimulate sectors of our economy.”
Peter Strong, executive director of the Council of Small Business of Australia, has urged the RBA to cut interest rates for the sake of the economy and employment and says a rate cut will help a number of small business owners including real estate agents, tourist related business and the service sector as a whole.
“These sectors employ more people and add more to the economy than mines and banks put together and the RBA needs to get its head into reality and away from the over emphasised world of big business.”
 
 
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Europe worries and budget cuts intensify pressure for RBA to cut rates in December

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The sovereign debt crisis being experienced in Europe could soon be hitting the hip pockets of Australian mortgage holders. 
As eurozone finance ministers prepare to meet in Brussels tomorrow and Wednesday to try and find a path out of the current crisis, Australian economists and banking analysts are warning that the major banks may decide not to pass on the full extent of future interest rate cuts in order to maintain net profit margins on their lending and other financial products. 
Margins on home loans are expected to come under pressure due to an increase in the cost of re-financing wholesale funding lines as more jittery offshore institutional investors demand a greater return for their money (despite Australian mortgage-backed securities and other debt products rated among the safest in the world). 
The risk was made clear last week by Katie Dean, head of Australian economics at ANZ, who said a key transmission risk to Australia from European sovereign debt troubles was “a systemic shock to the supply and/or cost of global credit”. 
“This week, we saw a range of worrying developments that signal these transmission risks have risen,” she said.
“If global credit costs fail to resettle, the cost of Australian wholesale bank funding will likely rise. 
“This increases the risk that these higher wholesale costs will be passed on to the end-users of credit: businesses and households.” 
Over the past financial year the Big Four banks raised about $100 billion annually from wholesale debt markets to fund mortgage lending – primarily from institutional investors in Europe and the United States. 
While the major banks have all said they can hold off tapping into off-shore markets until 2012, Goldman Sachs estimates they will collectively require around $72 billion in wholesale funding for the 2012 financial year. 
According to figures prepared by Deutsche Bank for Business Day, the Big Four banks will need to refinance a total of $48 billion in bonds by June next year,  with $16 billion needed to be refinanced by the end of January. 
This refinancing will have to be done at higher rate of borrowing, meaning either borrowers or the bank’s shareholders will have to bear the cost. 
Australians don’t need very long memories to recall that a similar situation evolved in the wake of the sub-prime mortgage crisis of 2007 and 2008 when banks either raised interest rates above official rate rises or did not pass on rate cuts in full, blaming this on the high cost of offshore funding. 
This culminated in Westpac’s infamous “banana smoothie” animated video, where it tried unsuccessfully to explain how the increase cost of wholesale funding (bananas) was pushing up the price of mortgages (banana smoothies) after the bank raised mortgage rates by 45 basis points in December 2009 following an RBA increase of just 25 basis points. 
An escalation of the crisis in Europe would only add to the cost of borrowing money offshore with the increase likely to be passed on to borrowers rather than shareholders.
This appears to be happening already. with ANZ chief executive and new chairman of the Australian Bankers Association Mike Smith telling the Weekend Australian Europe was already in a “nasty” credit crunch, which was likely to spread to Asia and Australia. 
Offshore jitters has already caused the Commonwealth Bank to pull an issue of covered bonds – considered an exceptionally safe investment because they are backed the  bank’s assets  - due to “heightened market volatility”. 
Aside from increased wholesale funding costs, banks will also be looking to maintain home loan profit margins following a home loan pricing war, with the most recent JP Morgan Banking Sector report warning that “current [home loan] pricing is about as competitive as it can get prior to diluting group returns”.
 
 
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European debt crisis could hurt Australians' hip pockets

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The moderation in Australian house prices since mid-2010 should ease concerns that a large housing price bubble had developed, according to the international ratings agency Fitch.
It noted household leverage was still high in Australia.
“The household debt-to-disposable income ratio was 153.5% in Q2 2011, above the 'AAA' median, albeit lower than some rating peers.
“This can be linked to the run-up in housing prices over the past decade and a half.
“Official and private sector estimates show that growth in housing prices have been moderating since mid-2010, which should ease concerns that a large bubble has developed,” the report notes.
 
 
 
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Fitch eases its concerns that Australia had a large housing bubble

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National vendor discounting eased over the September quarter, however the rate of discounting remains at inflated levels, according to RP Data.
Across the capitals, vendor discounting sits at -6.4% for houses and -6.1% for units.
At the same time last year, vendor discounting was -5.8% for houses and -6.05% for units.
Over the past five years the average vendor discount has been recorded at -5.9% for houses and -5.6% for units.
“The current high level of vendor discounting is reflective of the slowdown in market conditions across the county, increased stock levels and greater competition amongst vendors for a smaller pool of buyers,” RP Data head of research Tim Lawless says.
“With the market recording value falls across each capital city and listings at elevated levels, it is anticipated that vendor discounting is likely to remain at above average levels.”
<img src="/images/stories/rpnov29.gif">
Houses are currently taking an average of 56 days to sell with units typically selling in 54 days, according to RPData.
A year ago it took an average of 46 days to sell a house and 43 days for units.
“The results show that the average time it takes to sell a property has increased as market conditions have softened,” Lawless notes.
Lawless says the time on market and vendor discounting figures continue to suggest that there is a disconnect between prices that vendors are seeking and those that purchasers are prepared to pay for the properties currently available.
The latest report noted houses have taken 47 days and units 43 days to sell over the last five years, highlighting that both were currently at levels well above average.
The average time on market is simply the time it takes from when a property is initially advertised for sale to when it ultimately sells.
Vendor discounting measures the average amount vendors have to discount their properties from the initial list price in order to sell their property by private treaty.
 
 
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Vendor discounting eases but time on market extends: RP Data

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november29medich]}
Internal photos giving a glimpse into the Point Piper home of Ron Medich and his wife, Odetta, have been posted on an international architectural website.
Meanwhile the harbourfront property remains quietly listed for sale, having never been publicly marketed in print or internet.
The photos by Romello Pireira show its harbourside pool patio that comes adorned with Tasmanian tiger sculptures by Caroline Rothwell. The internal walls of the four-storey house are filled with contemporary art.
The Australian architectural studio Katon Redgen Mathieson completed the Point Piper project in 2009. The <a target="_blank" href="https://myinteriordesign.us/point-piper-residence">design website MyInteriorDesign</a> posted photos by Pireira of the assignment on its website on the weekend.
“This existing four storey house was stripped back to its concrete structure, remodelled and refurbished,” MyInteriorDesign notes. “The planning was simplified and a new circulation spine, with circular lift and stair, added and extended to the upper arrival level to the house. Limestone, American oak and Arabescato marble are used throughout the house.
"Sliding glass doors open across the facade to terraces and balconies. The rear internal walls of each floor are panelled in oak (living levels) and Belgian linen (bedroom levels) as a backdrop to the client’s contemporary art collection. An existing free-form swimming pool was refurbished on the harbour level terrace.”
Earlier this year Ron Medich slapped an ambitious $55 million asking price on the mansion he owns with his estranged wife, arts patron Odetta. Medich made a fortune with his brother developing industrial sites in Sydney’s west. Odetta has been one of the country's most generous patron of the arts.
Before his arrest in October over the 2009 murder of his business associate Michael McGurk, Ron Medich was living in splendour in the white house with point-blank images of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Now on bail and wearing an electronic bracelet that monitors his movements, Ron Medich lives in a two-storey, 128-square-metre apartment in a city high rise overlooking St Andrews Cathedral.
With his wife spending most of her time in Europe, the couple's Wolseley Road home was quietly listed for sale in February.
The David Katon-designed house replaced the house bought from the restaurateur Wolfie Pizem in 2003 for $15.1 million.
Pizem had bought the 780-square-metre property for $160,000 in 1978.
Agents have estimated a more realistic price for the Medich home was about $40 million.
One agent quipped that the Medichs' art collection was worth far more than the house.
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Tasmanian tigers keep watch over the Point Piper harbourfront mansion of the much-accused Ron Medich

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The level of distressed commercial property available in Australia is expected to increase and dramatically exceed demand in quarter four of 2011, according the latest report by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.
The level of global supply is expected to outstrip demand by 60%, up from an estimated 40% in the third quarter.
<img src="/images/stories/distressed-property.gif">
Source: RICS
The level of interest in distressed properties from specialist funds in Australia is down from the second quarter.
Demand exceeded supply for distressed commercial property in New Zealand in quarter three, but RICS expects supply to exceed demand in quarter four. 
The global increase is led by Ireland, Southern Europe and the United Arab Emirates.
“Of the 25 countries included in the report, respondents in roughly three quarters indicated that they expected the supply of distressed assets to rise in the coming quarter, compared to the previous quarter,” the report found.
“Respondents in 15 countries expect supply to rise beyond increasing demand from investors, compared to only 11 in Q2.”
Germany and Russia were among the few European countries holding ground.
Germany had a slight increase in interest in distressed properties and in Russia levels of demand by specialist funds but the supply of distressed properties is also expected to fall.
“Other European commercial property markets have again weakened amid fears of the crisis intensifying in Greece and the political instability in debt-burdened Italy further threatening the single currency,” the report found.
“China and Brazil are still prospering, with both countries expecting the number of foreclosed properties coming to the market to decline over the near term.”
Distressed property is a one that is under a foreclosure order or is advertised for sale by its mortgagee.
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