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="291" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
Median unit price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
3053
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
CARLTON
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
$295,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
3000
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
MELBOURNE
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
$380,833
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
3078
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
FAIRFIELD
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
$389,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
3051
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
NORTH MELBOURNE
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
$420,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
3031
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
KENSINGTON
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
$430,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
3185
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
RIPPONLEA
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
$430,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
3181
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
WINDSOR
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
$460,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
3182
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
ST KILDA WEST
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
$460,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
3183
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
BALACLAVA
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
$470,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
3182
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="133">
ST KILDA
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="93">
$470,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: RP Data
 
 
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awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

The 10 inner-Melbourne suburbs with the cheapest unit prices: RP Data

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According to the Australian Retailers Association, its members are projecting $39.5 billion in sales from mid-November until Christmas — reflecting an overall increase of just 2% on last year.
Many shoppers still remain extremely hesitant, despite the RBA's recent interest rate reduction.
However, with household savings at record levels, people may simply be holding back on their main splurge until the post-Christmas sales.
Either way, the retail sector is delicately poised at the moment.
Most fashion and other specialty shops are finding things really tough, although restaurants, wine bars and other "entertainment" outlets have been reporting steady business.
Sure, online shopping has grabbed the headlines over the past 12 months.
However, it seems there is also a growing number of people using larger regional shopping malls to carry out their initial research. And then they return to their neighbourhood strip centres — where they can browse in relative peace and receive far more personal attention.
If they are going to part with their hard-earned savings, shoppers appear to want (and now expect) some old-fashioned service.
In other words, shopping now needs to offer an enjoyable experience — and not merely be an endless selection of basically the same products, simply in different stores.
For many, discounting alone will no longer motivate them to buy. Most shoppers are now seeking out friendly interaction, together with genuine personal service.
Originally, discounting destroyed store loyalty, as people focused on obtaining that product as cheaply as possible, from whoever was offering them the best price.
But slowly, the wheel is turning mainly because people are feeling rather "discounted out".
Don't misunderstand – everyone still loves a bargain. But this now seems to be mainly related to generic fashion items.
For anything a little more intimate, and portraying your personality, you will find shoppers gravitating towards stores providing them with one-on-one guidance in making their final choice.
Bottom Line: While this emerging trend is certainly interesting, as a commercial property investor, you will find it almost impossible to pick between the good and bad specialty traders when choosing who will be the stronger tenant over the next three to five years.
As such, you should stick with the "entertainment" group for your tenants if you do wish to invest in retail property at the moment.
Alternatively, seek out shops with quasi-retailers, like banks, travel agents, solicitors, accountants or real estate agents — all of whom are far less dependent upon passing traffic.
Chris Lang is an advisor to commercial property investors and gives keynote speeches and regular seminars on the best way to invest in commercial property. He maintains a blog, <a href="https://his-best.biz/" title="Chris Lang's blog" target="_blank">his-best.biz</a>, which he updates regularly about the best way to get the most out of your commercial property investment.
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chrislang-EQKojcgJPV

Entertainment, rather than fashion, is a safer commercial property investment

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The demographics of our cities are changing at a dramatic pace.  While most are distracted by the state of the euro and the possible consequences to the Australian economy, long-term property investors should have their sights set on the emerging trends affecting Australian real estate. While immigration has bought a wonderful diversity of culture to Australian shores, flavouring suburbs with international restaurants and much-loved cosmopolitan delights, the effects on property have been startling.
The biggest increases in population between the 2001 and 2006 censuses were from China (64,000) and India (52,000) – two countries with dense populations and lifestyles very different from that of the typical Aussie family.  As a proportion of our population, ratios of migrants born in Asian countries are on the rise, and it’s suggested that by 2025 they will be the majority. 
To give you some idea of current living conditions in these two countries, India’s urban population is growing twice as fast as the rural population and China’s metropolitan areas have mushroomed.  Statistics forecast an expected 350 million people to move into China’s major cities by 2030 and there are reports China will need to build 50,000 new high-rise buildings in the over-populated towns to accommodate the surge.  To the incoming migrants landing on Australian shores, our capitals must seem luxuriously capacious and attractive in comparison. 
There is no doubt population growth has had significant impacts on the changing topography of real estate in Australia.  During the 1950s the landscape was sculpted with large blocks land, smaller houses and huge back yards.  Australia held the international image of people who enjoyed an outdoor sporty lifestyle and Victoria was aptly labelled the “garden state”. Since then city borders have been forced outwards under the increasing influx.
Once labelled outer-suburban areas are now seen as middle- and inner-ring suburbs, attracting high property prices and strong demand. The trend for inner-city apartment living has increased and been strongly favoured by investors who lean towards low-maintenance set-and-forget acquisitions – investments that are easy to rent and fall under consistent demand from international students and young migrants. 
Melbourne arguably heads the population race and Sydney isn’t far behind. Even though the ABS recently reported a slowdown in migration, Melbourne’s still on track to comfortably reach upwards of 6.5 million by 2030.  As a result, leading demographers have stated that Melbourne and Sydney will need to be “completely redesigned”.  To emphasise the point, take a look at some of the quotes below – they are taken from The Committee for Melbourne’s 2050 Melbourne Beyond 5 Million report 
“At the local street level, high-frequency public transport will be threaded through the entire city.”
 
“The development industry has learnt that it is merely a waiting game of when, not if, the UGB (urban growth boundary) line will be re-drawn”
 
“Density needs to be understood and nurtured, not feared, as it has the ability to assist in shaping and growing Melbourne into an even more liveable city.” 
The report highlights the need to plan for the “inevitable” swelling of our borders; however it also takes into account the effects of cultural diversity – something that’s rarely highlighted in property seminars.  In short, when it comes time to sell the family home you purchase today, the buying market dominating the population could have completely different tastes and preferences from that of the typical Aussie family – so much so, it could affect the future potential of your investment. 
Well-weathered property buyers understand that residential real estate with good owner-occupier appeal fuels demand and consequently holds the best prospect for positive long-term capital growth.  However, many make the mistake of purchasing what they’d consider attractive and don’t take into account future cultural changes – namely the Asian market.  For example, to the average Australian buyer, period properties hold an unqualified level of appeal and capital growth tends to outshine other more modern styles.  However, to many Asian buyers, period homes are often seen as old and dated and newer properties grab the upper hand. 
Other trends also are also starting to play an important role in the cultural hubs of our cities.  For example, properties with the number ‘4’ in the address are considered unlucky and avoided, whereas the number ‘8’ in an address has the opposite effect and in predominantly Asian populated suburbs, houses listed with an ‘8’ will attract a higher price based on this alone. 
As a buyer advocate I’m often asked to search for properties that fit a compatible feng shui floor plan with various rooms in different quadrants of the house – (not an easy task.)  Also, homes opposite a T intersection, close to a cemetery, or with a view from the front door straight through to the rear (something that attracts European and Australian buyers) are also frowned upon.  It’s worth taking these aspects into account, because stick around for a while and the trends are not only likely to grow in dominance but – depending on location – they may also start to affect the price of your best and most valuable asset. 
With lack of experience, investors often get caught up purchasing property with a preconceived set formula; they forget to think about the area they’re purchasing into.  For example if you want to gain from prospective future demand, it’s no good purchasing – or indeed planning - a modern box-style townhouse in a location that predominantly attracts buyers who flock there for the pretty streets lined with Californian bungalows on expansive blocks of land.  Neither is it wise to target a small one-bedroom apartment in a popular school zone in an area that only predominantly holds value for families with school-age children. 
Likewise, a simple look at Australia’s future demographics is giving us clues to what will affect property prices in the future – and it’s not as simple (as some would suggest) of  “house and land vs apartment”!  As individuals we can’t control future market movements, however with a bit of insightful forethought we can minimise the risks of our choices – especially when it comes to purchasing real estate.
Catherine Cashmore is senior buyer advocate for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.elitebuyeradvocates.com.au/">Elite Buyer Advocates</a>. With extensive experience in all matters regarding real estate, Elite Buyer Advocates purchases and negotiates more than $100 million worth of property each year for its clients.
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catherinecashmore-6LXia3pPQj

How Australia's changing demographics are affecting the property market for investors

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Demand for A-grade office space on the Gold Coast has picked up significantly over the past 18 months, with the vacancy rate falling from 40.2% in June 2010 to 25.3% in October 2011, according to valuer Herron Todd White. 
The amount of available A-grade office space has fallen over this time frame from 54,000 square metres to 34,000 square metres, equating to net absorption of 20,000 square metres. 
The take-up of A-grade office space has been helped by a number of factors, including the fact that there has been little new A-grade stock coming on board over this period. 
Total vacant space across all grades on the Gold Coast sits around the 100,000-square-metre level – more or less where it was 18 months ago, the report says. 
“Essentially what has happened is that the tenants of B- and C-grade properties have been lured in to A-grade buildings, leaving the B- and C-grade categories with higher vacancies,” explains HTW in the November report. 
Furthermore, to encourage leasing deals for A-grade space, landlords have had to offer reductions in face rentals and the solid levels of incentives, a common feature of the market, with the report noting that market and economic conditions remain weak. 
In the A-grade space, demand is higher for buildings of high quality and carrying green-star rating. 
The report notes that this year the majority of prominent A-grade buildings on the Gold Coast have either been or are currently on the market for sale, or are undergoing major leasing campaigns. 
These include 50 Cavill Avenue, the dominant office tower in Surfers Paradise, featuring 22 levels and net lettable space of 16,702 square metres. 
The building was listed for sale by expression of interest earlier this year, but is now off the market with a large amount of vacant space within the building. 
A major leasing campaign is underway to fill this space. 
According to HTW, the ability to fill this space will depend on the level of rental and incentives offered. 
Corporate Centres One and Two at Bundall are currently for sale by an expression of interest campaign which closed in late October. 
Along with the two towers, which provide a total net lettable area of 19,565 square metres, there is also approximately 15,500 square metres of surrounding development land purchased in 2007 at a price of $106 million. 
Other A-grade office buildings up for sale include the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/austar-s-gold-coast-headquarters-back-on-the-market/2011072250887">6,700-square-metre Austar Building in Robina</a>, which was listed in July by owner BlackRock with a $40 million price tag, following an unsuccessful attempt to sell the building in June 2008.
 
 
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Gold Coast office market shows signs of improvement: HTW

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Rental returns in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth have increased significantly this year while rental growth in Melbourne has been minimal, according to RP Data national research director Tim Lawless.
Average Sydney rents increased 5.9% for houses to $550 a week and 5.4% for units to $513 a week.
The median gross rental yield Sydney houses is now 4.4%, with units yielding 5.2%, both above the combined capital city average.
In Brisbane and Perth house rents increased 4.8% and 10.1% respectively and unit rents went up 8.4% and 6.8% respectively.
In Melbourne average house rents went up just 1.9% while unit rents remained the same.
“The common denominator across Sydney, Brisbane and Perth's strong rental conditions is that new housing supply has been insufficient relative to population growth,” says Lawless, writing in The Sydney Morning Herald.
“The number of dwellings that commenced construction across NSW during the June quarter was just 6,696. [In] Victoria, where housing demand is virtually the same as NSW,… there were 14,684 dwelling starts – more than double NSW.”
This decade NSW had 25% fewer dwelling commencements than the previous decade.
“With the Sydney housing market clearly under-supplied we have seen rental vacancy rates reportedly fall below 1.% and the upwards pressure on rents is likely to persist,” he says.
“This is compounded by the fact first-home buyers represent a fairly small proportion of the market.”
Lawless advises investors seeking maximum rental return to buy where rental demand is likely to be the highest and where there are clear supply constraints.
“Established suburbs close to major working nodes are generally a safe bet, as are suburbs close to universities and major public transport hubs.”
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Rents rising in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth but stagnant in Melbourne: Tim Lawless

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november28balmoral]}
Ros Oatley-Lambert, the former wife of the former Southcorp wine chief Keith Lambert, has snapped up her neighbouring Balmoral harbourfront property, Kahala, to improve her garden and boating facilities.
The 1,485-square-metre Hopetoun Avenue acquisition was sold by Albert Bertini, the flamboyant property developer. The Lamberts own the adjoining Rivendell, which is set on a 2,000-square-metre double block.
The sale price has not been revealed but it last traded for $22.5 million in pre-global financial crisis 2007 and was therefore expected to sell through Raine &amp; Horne Mosman for less in the current subdued market. It's speculated the price was above $18 million, perhaps just shy of $19 million.
Bertini and his former wife, Heather, bought Kahala from the successful veteran property developer Phil Arnold, who'd owned it since 1980.
Arnold paid $380,000 for the estate when it was sold by Lady (Delzie) Hooker, the widow of the real estate tycoon Sir Leslie Hooker, whose ashes are buried on the foreshore rocks.
In 1940, Les Hooker paid £3,050 for the property and during the 1950s he built a three-level house and a boatshed.
Bertini started works to rebuild the house as well as two pools, garaging for eight cars and a $1 million tunnel with a lift to the boatshed.
Bertini’s boatshed, currently accessed by 160 stairs, has his boating pride and joy – a 26-foot timber boat once owned by the US's most powerful family, the Kennedys. Bertini was recently filmed aboard his luxury boat, Jasa, during the Channel 9 series The Secret Millionaire in 2009. He was raised in Paris until the age of nine when his family migrated to Australia. He initially lived in a one-bedroom flat in Fairfield with his parents and three older brothers.
The Oatley viticulture family, who sold their Rosemount wine business to Fosters in 2001 for $1.4 billion, paid a then record $15.5 million for their Balmoral residence, Rivendell, which has limited boating facilities, when it sold through Richardson &amp; Wrench Mosman agent Robert Simeon.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Billionaire Oatley wine family snaps up Kahala for the best of Balmoral's boating facilities

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november28clovelly]}
Comedian Greig Pickhaver, better known as H.G. Nelson of Roy and HG fame, has sold his Clovelly property just four days after it hit the market through the real estate excitement machine, GoodyerDonnelley Real Estate.
Pickhaver - currently starring in the Channel 10 Kuala Lumpur-produced It's A Knockout series - bought the property for $425,000 in 1995. It’s a two-storey semi but with a very contemporary architectural fit-out. Fairfax Media property video presenter Simon Johanson says it sold for $1.98 million.
Of superlative proportions, it has four bedrooms and two bathrooms on its 300-square-metre block. Its large main bedrooms comes with ocean views.
Pickhaver  starred in the cult Australian comedy film This Won't Hurt a Bit opposite LA-based actor Jacqueline McKenzie, who sold her Waverton residence at recent auction for $1,163,000 – a suburb record for a two-bedroom house. McKenzie's house is among those rumoured to be occupied by the poet Henry Lawson between 1914 and 1921.
Pickhaver's character H.G. Nelson once had a business selling Zils (black Limousines used by the KGB) to clientele who's life was in danger. HG Nelson's most famous saying is: "Too much sport is barely enough."  
 
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How's That! Greig Pickhaver of Roy and HG sells Clovelly home in four days

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The proportion of Australian households with insulation increased from 61% in 2008 to 69% in 2011, according to the latest ABS data.
The states showing the largest increase were Queensland and New South Wales.
In the Australian Capital Territory 81% of households had insulation compared with 44% of households in the Northern Territory.
Some 70% of households indicated that their main reason for installing insulation was to"'achieve comfort", although more than one in 10 (11%) did so because of the rebate that was offered.
The proportion of Australian households with a cooler  -either a refrigerated air conditioner or an evaporative cooler - increased from 59% in 2005 to 73% in 2011.
 
 
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The ACT ranks as the insulation capital of the country, with NT households still suffering the weather

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Prime Adelaide office rents are expected to rise over the next two years due to an increasing demand for quality space, a current shortage of new development and limited vacancies. 
There has already been pressure on rental rates over the past 12 months, with increases of between 7% and 8% noted by valuer Herron Todd White HTW in its November market report. 
“Rental growth is expected to continue over the next two years or so and incentives are also expected to reduce over this time,” the report says. 
According to an October Savills report on the Adelaide office market, the prime grade vacancy rate (Premium, A Grade stock) stood at 6.84% at the end of June 2011, with just seven full floors and 10,429 square metres available for lease. 
Available premium space stood at just 2.1% as of July 2011. 
The Property Council of Australia recorded the overall office vacancy rate (including B, C and D grade) fell to 7.9% in June 2011 compared with 8.4% in January 2011. 
According to the November HTW report, Adelaide office tenants demand for “improved standards of accommodation, better services and energy efficient features” is continuing to drive the demand for prime quality stock over second-grade buildings. 
“This may in turn increase demand for secondary stock as investors look to value-add by refurbishing secondary stock in order to retain or attract tenants and to increase rental growth in the longer term.” 
The report notes that tenant activity has been on the increase since the end of 2010 and has been mostly driven by smaller leases under 1,000 square metres, possibly due to the lack of large office areas currently available. 
To date yields have been relatively stable at between 7.5% and 9.5%. 
However with vacancy rates decreasing and rents increases, yields are starting to tighten and are expected to “slowly contract even further to more traditional levels in the next 12 months or so”. 
The demand for high-quality office space is also encouraging developers to consider new projects in the Adelaide market. However, according to the HTW report, significant pre-commitment is required before any of these projects will get off the ground. 
There are currently three new office buildings under construction in the Adelaide CBD, with almost 100% pre-commitment. 
These are the new South Australian Police Headquarters at 130 Angas Street (18,000 square metres) which is close to completion, City Central Tower 8 at 12-26 Franklin Street (36,000 square metres) with completion expected toward the end of 2012 and Rundle Place at 90-100 Grenfell Street (28,000 square metres), with completion due in 2013. 
A 17,000-square-metre office block at 18 Flinders Street, due to be completed by June 2014, has received development approval. 
Recent sales include MTAA Super House at 55 Currie Street, Adelaide, which sold for $81 million in May this year for a yield of 9.41% and 77 Grenfell Street which reportedly sold in an off market transaction in June 2011 for $91.7 million, a yield of 7.5%. 
These are the highest sales for an office building in Adelaide since 2004.
 
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Demand for quality Adelaide office space to drive up rents

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There’s apparently a new addition for sightseeing Chinese tourists when they visit Sydney.
Not just cuddly koalas and the Opera House – they have added driving along Wolseley Road, Point Piper for a glimpse of the $32.4 million property owned by a son of a former vice-president of China, according to a Wall Street Journal report.
Set high on a hill, above a towering sandstone wall and overlooking Sydney Harbour with picture postcard-perfect views of the bridge, Craig-y-Mor, the Point Piper non-waterfront residence, is owned by Zeng Wei and his wife, Jiang Mei.
The 2008 purchase was made just in the name of Jiang Mei. Quietly during 2009, the name of the Wei Zeng was subsequently added to the title.
<img src="/images/stories/wolesleyarchitect.jpg">
Architect's impression: Gergely &amp; Pinter Architects
By late 2009 the couple were seeking its demolition, to be replaced by a $5 million new home (architect's impression above), so they were both named for the first time in the much anticipated end-of-year Sydney Morning Herald Title Deeds Christmas party column.
It quickly sparked speculation in Chinese internet chatrooms.
“??????Sydney Morning Herald 2009 December 12-13 weekend edition??????2009?12?12??13?????????????Domain House?????2H????Title Deeds????????????Jonathan-Chancellor???????????????????????????????????????????????? ?????????????????????????? “It was the talk of the party. Craig-y-Mor, the Point Piper non-waterfront residence, is set to be bulldozed by its $32.4 million buyers, Mei Jiang and Wei Zeng.” ?????? ???google??????????????????????????????????????????????google????????????????????????????? ??????Title Deeds???????3240???????????????????????????????????????????“It will be the priciest knockdown in Sydney’s history”) ??????Gergely &amp; Pinter Architects ????????Woollahra Council??????????????Woollahra??????????????????????Point Piper ?????????????????? ????????Wolseley Rd, Point Piper NSW.” (translation from Google Translate below)
Despite their names being published in an incorrect order and the restrictions on Baidu, the Chinese internet search engine, the web was soon alive with chatter linking Wei to his father, Zeng Qinghong, the former vice-president of the People's Republic of China between 2003 and 2008, and once one of the most powerful men in the Chinese Communist Party. Jiang was noted for studying at the Beijing Dance Academy and, following a stint in television at the Chinese property developer Renhe Group.
In April 2010, the Fairfax press published confirmatory details noting (in correct order) businessman Zeng Wei, and his wife, Jiang Mei, were examples of the opportunities open to foreign investors in the right visa class.
“Mr Wei's father, Zeng Qinghong, was vice-president of China between 2003 and 2008 and the fifth-ranking member in the Politburo Standing Committee,” the SMH and The Age report noted.
“In 2008, the couple paid $32.4 million for Craig-y-Mor in Point Piper, the third-most expensive house ever sold in Australia.
“The purchase was made after he obtained a business migration visa the year before.
“The grand 1920s house with renovations by Professor Leslie Wilkinson was initially bought just in his wife's name, as was an earlier acquisition - a $1 million apartment in the World Tower block in Liverpool Street in the CBD in 2005.
“The couple's application to demolish the house and replace it with a new $4.95 million home is being reviewed by Woollahra Council, which is seeking heritage advice,” it reported in an article by then property editors Jonathan Chancellor and Marika Dobbin.
The couple won planning approval on Christmas Eve 2010.
They currently have lodged an amendment seeking modifications for an extra tunnel excavation this one to provide access to the pool and gym area.
The WSJ noted the elder Zeng, long the right-hand man to former President Jiang Zemin, was a member of China's peak political body, the Politburo Standing Committee, for five years and before that headed the powerful Organisation Department, which is responsible for deciding who gets which political posts.
The report goes on to note the source of his son and daughter-in-law's fortune was “unclear.
Both Jiang and Zeng are also directors of an Australia-registered company called Fruit Master International Ltd. Public documents don't disclose what the company does, and its accountant declined to comment to the WSJ.
The company's four other board members include one of China's richest men, Renhe Chairman Dai Yongge, his wife and his sister, Xiuli Hawken, with whom he helped to found Renhe. Hawken, now a UK resident, has been ranked by Forbes as the 15th-richest person in the UK, worth $2.2 billion.
"If you have got Sydney Morning Herald 2009 December 12-13 weekend edition (Sydney Morning drive Sinica 2009 ? December 12 to 13 weekend), then the Domain House in itsversion with the first page (2H), is the Title deeds (property deed) column, this written by theJonathan-Chancellor recently disclosed in a column devoted to the sale of transfer of the dynamic Sydney mansion, including the house's history, overview, some basic informationbuyers and sellers. In the first paragraph of this column, two Chinese person's name caught my attention: "It was the talk of the party. Craig-y-Mor, the Point Piper non-waterfront residence, is set to be bulldozed by its $ 32.4 million buyers, Mei Jiang and Wei Zeng. " Zeng? Chiang Mei? Online google a bit, Zeng, former Chinese Vice President Zeng Qinghong's son. Chiang Mei, the first CCTV "video Tong Qisheng" column host, Zeng's wife. Then google a bit, manyunconfirmed news that Zeng network to Australia several years ago. Read on, Title Deeds that his men used the original 32.4 million Australian dollars to buy the house, the plans to be demolished for redevelopment. And pointed out that this is the history of Sydney's most expensive demolished for redevelopment projects (original: "It will be the priciest knockdown in Sydney's history") building designed by Gergely &amp; Pinter Architects isresponsible. The project application has been Woollahra Council, is in the public notice period.So on the Woollahra City's website, the next check is being publicized Point Piper real estate-related projects only one project, the applicant is the design company. The resulting housingaddress Wolseley Rd, Point Piper NSW."
 
 
 
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