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.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

[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>

&nbsp;

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>
Two more Mosmanites have sued their neighbour over trees blocking their views, but neither complaint was successful in this week’s judgements, adding to the very poor batting rate of Mosman tree view court cases.
Two separate owners in a Mosman apartment block sought to convince the New South Wales Land and Environment Court to order the removal or pruning of their neighbour’s kaffir plum, jacaranda and hackberry trees.
<img src="/images/stories/mosmantree1.jpg">
The court dismissed both cases.
The first applicant in a second-floor apartment said the trees belonging to noted archictect Stan Symonds (pictured above and below) obscured views of the sky and the district to the south, while the second applicant on the ground floor said he previously had a triangular view of Mosman Bay and its surrounds before the trees ruined everything.
Commissioner Judy Fakes found that while there was an obstruction of a view for the first applicant she would not order the removal of the trees.
“In the absence of the kaffir plums, the very narrow view … along the southern boundary fence to the SSW would be obscured by other trees not subject to the court's jurisdiction and therefore, any interference with the trees is unlikely to open up the desired view,” she said.
“The nominated room is a bedroom and not a living room and therefore it is reasonable to expect that limited time would be spent in that room looking out the window.”
She added that applicant’s “living room has the desired views of Mosman Bay”.
<img src="/images/stories/mosmantree2.jpg">
She was also unconvinced about the ground-floor applicant’s argument.
“Even if I were satisfied of a severe obstruction, the discretionary matters discussed in relation to the [upstairs] property would apply.
“However, the view from … the property is not so obstructed.”
Commissioner Judy Fakes had also heard an earlier case that the two kaffir plum trees and a camphor tree had damaged the neighbour’s 13-metre brick wall, concrete paving, sewer and a sandstone retaining wall.
In regards to the sewer commissioner Fakes found that “absent any actual problems with the sewer and no evidence of any roots, there is no reason to suspect that the situation will change in the next 12 months”.
Speaking about the paving she found “the applicant was unable to produce evidence of any roots from any of the trees in the section of slab said to be damaged”.
With the retaining wall she found “there is no evidence that any part of any of the trees on the respondents' property have contributed to the displacement of one of the large blocks of sandstone.”
“I consider the removal of the tree to be disproportionate to the extent of the tree's contribution to the state of the wall and would be completely unreasonable on the evidence before me,” she said in her concluding statements.
Judges have found the residents of Mosman to be a little keen in their arboriculture objections, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/mosmanites-who-can-t-see-the-bridge-for-the-trees-take-neighbours-to-court/2011111752420" target="_blank">with eight of the 10 previous cases in Mosman dismissed.</a>
</body></html>

awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Two more Mosmanites fail to lop their neighbour's trees 

<html><body>
Property developer Warren Anderson has quietly vacated Fernhill, the historic mansion at Mulgoa in Sydney's outer west ahead of today’s departure date deadline.
<img src="/images/stories/andersonhouse.jpg">
Anderson was ordered to vacate the colonial Greek revival-style mansion by November 24. 
He had been reluctant to depart the property – at one point arguing he had a binding lease – owned by the trustee company,   Owston Nominees No 2 Pty Ltd, which went into receivership in March 2009.
It followed recent NSW Supreme Court proceedings when the first mortgagee Balanced Securities Ltd won proceedings for possession from Judge Nigel Rein.
Balanced lent $18.5 million to Owston Nominees No 2 Pty with the debt with interest accrued now at $31,365,122.42. Angas Securities, the second mortgagee, is owed a slightly higher amount.
The prized estate last traded when it was bought from the founder of the Darling and Co merchant bank, John Darling, in 1980 for $2.8 million.
It was built for Edward Cox, the sixth and youngest son of pioneer William Cox, in the Greek Revival temple style, possibly designed by architect Mortimer Lewis, with amended plans dropping the second storey due to the 1840s agricultural recession.
Fernhill remained in the ownership of the Cox family until 1896, when it sold to the Wright family, of Wright, Heaton and Co, who billed their firm as the most extensive carrying firm in the colony.
The stone house and outbuildings were constructed over four years by 20 stonemasons who were brought in from Ireland.
The buildings are now surrounded by gardens modified in the 1970s by landscape architect Paul Sorensen, during which time the swimming pool was added.
Fernhill has 15 lots totalling 653 hectares, of which 404 hectares form part of the historic Fernhill estate that contains the original 1810 Cox family Crown land grant.
Anderson, the property tycoon whose collection of Regency antiques, old master paintings, French Empire clocks and stuffed animals raised $12 million last year after matrimonial disputation, was made bankrupt in June 2011, but is seeking to have it overturned.
Balanced Securities sought the possession order so that it can sell the property as a mortgagee in possession. The estate was listed earlier this year by Colliers International by receivers appointed by Angas but without any success while Anderson was in attendance.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/western-australia/warren-anderson-seeks-to-overturn-bankruptcy-and-stay-put/2011081251141">The swashbuckling Western Australian property developer</a> – whose fortune was estimated at $190 million by BRW in 1989 – has had problems with bankers knocking on his front door before. After the 1990s property downturn the tycoon famously fought to regain occupancy of his Elizabeth Bay residency, the Spanish Mission-style trophy home Boomerang, after his forceful 1993 eviction by financiers’ security guards.
The mostly low-key Anderson who once said, “You don't get a feed in the bush by making a lot of noise as you go through" became wealthy building Coles supermarkets during the 1970s and '80s, after running a desert roadhouse renowned for its lobster rolls.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Property developer Warren Anderson goes quietly this time, departing Fernhill after three decades

<html><body>
Nine out of the 10 Sydney suburbs experiencing the highest levels of housing stress are in Sydney’s western suburbs, a study by lobbying group Australians for Affordable Housing (AAH) has found. 
The suburb in the worst housing strife is Auburn, about 19 kilometres west of the Sydney CBD, where more than a quarter (28%) of residents are experiencing housing stress, followed by Fairfield (25%), Canterbury (24%) and Strathfield (21%). 
AAH defines housing stress as being the lowest 40% of equivalised household incomes who spend more than 30% of their income on housing costs. 
“A very wealthy person could easily decide to spend a large amount on a big house and still have plenty in dollar terms left over for everything else. So when someone in that bottom 40% is paying more than 30% of their income in housing costs, they are said to be in housing stress,” a spokesperson for AAH explained. 
The outer-western suburb of Fairfield has the highest proportion of people experiencing both mortgage stress (34%) and private rental stress (51%). 
Mortgage stress means those using more than 30% of the household income on mortgage repayments, and private rent stress means those in private rental using more than 30% of the household income on rental payments.
Botany Bay, near Sydney airport, is the only suburb not located in the city’s west to feature in the top 10 most stressed suburbs, with 19% of its residents experiencing housing stress, 18% experiencing mortgage stress and 34% experiencing private rent stress.
<table style="width: 378px;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
LGA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
% in housing stress
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
% in mortgage stress
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
% in rent stress
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Auburn (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
28
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
33
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
44
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Fairfield (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
25
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
34
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
51
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Canterbury (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
24
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
28
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
46
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Strathfield (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
21
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
22
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
37
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Liverpool (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
21
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
23
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
40
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Bankstown (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
21
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
27
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
44
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Holroyd (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
20
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
21
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
35
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Burwood (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
19
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
22
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
35
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Botany Bay (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
19
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
18
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
34
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Campbelltown (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
19
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
20
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
36
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Parramatta (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
19
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
20
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
31
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Blacktown (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
18
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
18
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
36
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Rockdale (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
18
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
21
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
33
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Ashfield (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
18
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
13
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
32
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Sydney (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
17
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
8
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
23
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Penrith (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
17
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
17
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
35
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Hurstville (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
17
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
19
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
35
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Marrickville (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
16
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
9
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
29
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Kogarah (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
15
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
18
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
34
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Randwick (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
15
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
12
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
25
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Ryde (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
14
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
13
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
29
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Camden (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
14
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
14
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
32
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Waverley (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
13
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
9
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
21
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Warringah (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
11
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
11
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
26
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Hornsby (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
11
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
12
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
30
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
SutherlandShire(A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
10
</td>
<td valign="top" width="101">
11
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
26
</td>
<td width="2">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Willoughby (C)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
10
</td>
<td valign="top" width="101">
9               
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
21
</td>
<td width="2">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Pittwater (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
10
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
11
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
31
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Manly (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
10
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
8
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
20
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
The Hills Shire (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
10
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
11
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
26
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Canada Bay (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
10
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
10
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
17
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Leichhardt (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
10
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
18
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Lane Cove (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
9
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
7
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
20
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Woollahra (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
9
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
7
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Hunters Hill (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
9
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
8
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Mosman (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
8
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
7
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
17
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
North Sydney (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
8
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
13
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="143">
Ku-ring-gai (A)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
6
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="103">
8
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="63">
24
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="0">
<td width="142"></td>
<td width="69"></td>
<td width="103"></td>
<td width="2"></td>
<td width="61"></td>
<td width="2"></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 *This  league  table  provides  for  comparison  of  small  local  areas  and  is  based  on  modelled  census   numbers.  These    are  not  directly  comparable  with  recently  published  housing  stress  modelling  on   ABS  Survey  of  Income   and  Housing  data. 
AAH campaign manager Sarah Toohey says the figures show where the pain is being felt and that urgent action by the NSW and Commonwealth governments is needed.
“Sydney needs a housing strategy that includes more than releasing land on the city fringe. Premier O’Farrell needs to invest in more affordable housing options close to jobs and services to reduce the squeeze on weekly budgets,” she says.
“Housing is the single biggest cost of living issue in Australia. When low-income households spend more than 30% of their income on housing costs they are officially in housing stress. This means they have very little left over to cover other costs like food, transport, bills or money for emergencies.”
“Australians for Affordable Housing is urging Sydney residents in housing stress to join the campaign to convince governments to address the housing crisis.
“We need collective action at all levels of government to ensure that we fix our broken housing system, and take the pressure off families struggling with high housing costs and lack of affordable options,” she says. 
Australians for Affordable Housing is a coalition of national housing, welfare and community sector organisations.
Photograph by Rory O'Brien
 
 
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Western suburbs dominate list of Sydney housing stress

<html><body>
Foreign investors own more than half of London’s financial district, a first for the city, according to a report commissioned by UK property developer Development Securities. Australia barely featured in the report.
Overseas companies now own 52% of London’s financial district following a three-year buying spree, the report says. The figures are up from 50% in 2010 and 44% in 2005.
<img src="/images/stories/ownership1.gif">
They made up two-thirds of office acquisitions by value over the past three years as they took advantage of falling prices.
London property values fell 50% from 2007 to 2009 and were 37% lower at the end of 2010 than the 2007 high.
“Irrespective of the sharp fall in capital values, the city is perceived as a relatively safe haven: conceivably as an inflation hedge,” chief executive of Development Securities Michael Marx says.
Australia is in the top eight groups of foreign owners for new builds and major refurbishments in the UK capital city.
US companies led the buying push, accounting for 37% of foreign property acquisitions, followed by Germany at 12% and Spain at 10% over the three-year period.
German companies now own the most property of all the foreign investors in London at 16%. American companies own 10%, and Middle Eastern companies own 6%.
<img src="/images/stories/ownership2.gif">
“Foreign ownership actually expanded in the eye of the storm rather than contracting,” Marx says.
“Such resilience would appear all the more remarkable in the light of the city’s associations with the failures of the international financial system.
“What offsets the systemic risk in relation to the city’s lack of diversification is the exceptional liquidity that characterises its office market.”
With €72 billion of sales activity between 2007 and 2011, London attracts more office inward investment than any other city, the report found. In mainland Europe, Paris stands at €43 billion and Frankfurt at €11 billion.
 
</body></html>

Foreign investors own more than half of London financial district

<html><body>
Leases for 20 pubs that form part of Redcape’s property portfolio are to be sold in February by the receivers of failed pub owner National Leisure and Gaming (NLG).
NLG is Redcape’s major tenant, contributing approximately 38.7% of the annual rent received by the trust.
Three of the leases are for pubs that ranked in the top 10 for gaming turnover in NSW last year – the El Cortez in Wakeley and the Eastwood and Cabramatta Club hotels – The Australian reported. Most of the leases are in Queensland and New South Wales.
The 20 leases were valued at between $70 million and $80 million when the Laundy Hotel Group bid for them earlier this year, but they have declined in value due to NLG being placed in receivership in October owing its lenders $580 million.
Redcape is currently in discussions with an investor group comprising affiliates of York Capital Management, Värde Partners, Inc. and Goldman Sachs to negotiate a recapitalisation proposal.  The exclusivity period for the discussions expires on November 28.
Since July, the consortium has been frustrated in its attempts to secure control of Redcape via a $635 million recapitalisation proposal launched in July.
The proposal was rejected by junior lenders to Redcape as being at too great a discount.
Redcape has a property portfolio comprised of 82 properties including 71 pubs and 11 shops based mainly in Queensland and NSW, with a small number of properties in Victoria and SA.
In May the consortium bought 38% of Redcape's $645 million worth of secured senior debt for around $200m and also acquired all of the $157 m worth of debt of National Leisure and Gaming, Redcape’s major tenant for between $ 35m and $40m.
More than half (45) of RedCape’s properties are leased to Coles.
The listed pub sector was battered during the GFC and according to industry sources quoted in the Australian Financial Review is “massively over rented” (meaning pubs are currently rented above their estimated market rental value), due to the rapid expansion of the corporate leasehold market in the mid-2000s when financing was cheaply available.
Earlier this month, he management rights of ING Real Estate Entertainment Fund (ING REEF) were transferred to a New Zealand fund manager.
The ING investment trust, comprising 22 pubs and 15 clubs, which are worth around $235 million, will be managed by Bodiam RE Ltd a subsidiary of the Torchlight Group for “nil consideration”, The Australian reported.
Torchlight is a subsidiary of New Zealand-based pub owner Payne Gould, which has a 17% stake ING REEF.
ING management had been hoping to sell the management rights for $2 million to $3 million.
 
</body></html>

NLG receivers to sell 20 pub leases 

<html><body>
With the ability to now get three-year fixed-rate home loans for 5.99%, and 6.39% variable-rate loans, there is understandably excitement brewing about the prospect of a recovery in the Aussie housing market. If the financial markets are right, and the RBA cuts rates another six to seven times by the middle of next year, we will get a very healthy rebound indeed. But in terms of actual near-term data flows, don't expect too much, too soon. 
The house price data that is heading our way is still dated before the RBA’s all-important November rate cut. The next tranche of information covers the month of October, and it will not be until the end of December (January) that we get the first, preliminary view of prices in November (December). 
While I expect housing activity to revitalise by the first quarter of 2012, this will not flow through to the price data until the end of March or April. 
We do, however, have partial, leading indicator data to work with in the interim. We will get monthly “seasonally adjusted” housing finance approvals from the ABS, which lead actual house prices by a quarter or so, and have been trending in the right direction thus far. 
The near-term auction clearance rate data will be of limited value since it is not seasonally adjusted and tends to taper off around this time of the year. 
I’d venture that the first credible indications of where the market stands will not be available until the February and March auction clearance rate results, which will coincide with the typically more liquid New Year sales season. 
On the balance of probabilities, the next three months’ worth of house price data will likely give us “more of the same”. We know from our listings, auction clearance rate, time-on-market and vendor discounting series that October – i.e., the month prior to the RBA’s cut – remained tepid. Clearance rates were low, vendor discounting wide, and there was a sizeable stock of homes on the market available for sale. 
While prices were not plummeting, they were not advancing either. The market was frozen in a weak stasis waiting for some interest rate relief. 
My current base case is, as a consequence, modest flat-to-negative house price results for the remainder of the year. Here there is a slight complication interpreting the seasonally adjusted data, which may have residual biases from the devastating January/February floods. 
In raw terms, national dwelling prices in the month of January were off only around 0.1%. Yet on a seasonally adjusted basis, they recorded a very large 1% fall. When we inspect the raw house price series, we can see a noticeable trend of slowly improving month-on-month conditions since the first quarter of 2011 (specially, slower price depreciation). On a seasonally adjusted basis, however, this disappears. It’s hard to say which series is providing the most accurate insights in light of the natural disasters in January and February. 
If you want to answer the question: what are actual house prices doing, rely on the raw index data. If, on the other hand, you want to strip out monthly seasonal influences assuming 2011 is just like any other year, check out the seasonally adjusted benchmark. 
Another key question for the housing market will be whether the RBA grants it more interest rate relief in December. According to the financial markets, this is a 100% certainty. That is, another rate cut in two weeks’ time is a bankable outcome. 
In fact, financial markets think there is a chance the RBA may pop off two rate cuts in December. I am not so sure, and will firm up my views once we have better information prior to the actual board meeting on the 6th of December. I suspect the RBA will be of a similar mind given that every day is a moving feast right now. 
There is no doubt that financial markets are completely besotted by what is happening in Europe. While the Eurozone only accounts for a small share of global economic growth, the transmission of a European crisis can have much more far-reaching consequences. 
This is a function of three things. 
First, Australian debt and equity markets still place a much higher weight on economic developments in the US and Europe than would be implied from either their direct contributions to Australian economic growth, or global growth. 
It is a habit that is proving very hard to shake, much to the frustration of the RBA. And it is borne out strikingly in financial market correlations: while the direct economic linkages between Australia and the North Atlantic economies are modest (around 70% of our exports go to Asia), our equity and debt investments are correlated very closely with daily movements in their US and European counterparts. 
Second, and partly an artifact of the first point, the wholesale funding that our banking system sources from overseas is currently being choked by the North Atlantic problems. 
If banks cannot get access to funding, they stop lending, and growth will be an immediate casualty. Fortunately, we have been through this episode before, and there are now well-established measures to protect domestic bank funding, including government guarantees of bank deposits and liabilities, and new liquidity facilities offered via the RBA. 
So, there is no reason to expect any big change in the Australian banking system’s access to funding in the near-to-medium term as long as the state remains the lender of last resort, which it will. 
The final transmission mechanism is consumer and business sentiment. It would seem that in today’s much more closely interwoven world, where financial news is telegraphed via the Internet instantly across computer screens, shocks in one part of the planet are transferred much more quickly to once far removed locations. Domestic business confidence and investment decisions appear to be more responsive to foreign events than ever before. While it is less obvious how Australian consumers will react, we can be sure that they are more sensitive to global developments than they have been in the past. 
The essential polarization between the underlying, and positive, economic growth pulse in Australia, and the snowballing turmoil in the Eurozone, was highlighted by yesterday’s construction work done data. In the third quarter this key component of GDP confounded pessimists, rising by an incredible 12.5% (the largest result on record) in comparison with market expectations of a 2.0% increase. This has the potential to increase the third quarter real GDP print by an amazing 1.7 percentage points, which would be a stunning result if the final numbers get anywhere near it. 
Since 2007-08 I have argued that Australian cash and fixed-income should be the preferred destinations for your savings. Nothing since has changed to shift my view.
Christopher Joye is a leading financial economist and a director of Rismark International and Yellow Brick Road Funds Management. The above article is not investment advice.
 
</body></html>

chrisjoye-JYhJsTrNRC

Housing recovery to begin in first quarter of 2012, but data headlines won’t tell us until later: Christopher Joye

<html><body>
Sydney is the only major capital city to register an increase in apartment prices over the past 12 months as the overall market declined by 1.57% for the year to October 2011, according to research by Residex.
Over this period Sydney units increased by 2.77% to a median price of $485,500. However this growth rate was a little more than half the 5.05% achieved annually by Sydney units over the last decade.
Of late, Sydney unit prices have remained flat, declining by 0.54% over the last three months to October and rising just 0.42% of the month of October.
Rental increases have not kept up with capital values.
For the year to October, Sydney unit rents increased by 2.27% to a median of $440 per week, below Darwin, which at $450 a week is the most expensive place to rent an apartment across Australia.
According to Residex, the average price of a unit in Australia now stands at $394,500 with a median rent of $355 a week.
Over the last 12 months, Perth suffered the biggest drop in unit prices of 6.55% to $379,000 followed by Hobart (- 5.94%), Brisbane (- 3.48%), Melbourne (- 3.31%) and Adelaide (-1.08%).
Outside of Sydney, the only regions to record median unit prices increases over the last 12 months were the ACT (up 2.75% to $422,000) and country Victoria (up 1.79% to $255,500).
 
<table style="width: 415px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td rowspan="2">
Area
</td>
<td rowspan="2">
Median Value
</td>
<td width="249" colspan="4">
Growth
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="57" valign="top">
10 Years % p.a.
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
Year Ending Oct 2011
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
Last Quarter
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
Last Month
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
ACT
</td>
<td valign="top">
$422,000
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
9.46%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
2.75%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-1.46%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-2.02%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Adelaide
</td>
<td valign="top">
$312,000
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
9.82%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-1.08%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
1.25%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
0.56%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
SA Country
</td>
<td valign="top">
$231,000
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
7.71%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
0.03%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-1.39%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
1.23%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Brisbane
</td>
<td valign="top">
$352,000
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
9.07%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-3.48%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-1.74%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-0.98%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
QLD Country
</td>
<td valign="top">
$315,000
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
8.16%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-8.30%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
0.78%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
0.19%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Darwin
</td>
<td valign="top">
$386,500
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
10.44%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-8.38%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-1.25%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-0.95%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Northern Territory
</td>
<td valign="top">
$377,000
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
10.52%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-7.38%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-1.38%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-1.22%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Hobart
</td>
<td valign="top">
$267,000
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
9.88%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-5.94%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-4.27%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-0.41%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
TAS Country
</td>
<td valign="top">
$205,500
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
10.01%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-10.16%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-0.83%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-1.24%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Melbourne
</td>
<td valign="top">
$435,500
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
7.04%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-3.31%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-3.13%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-1.53%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
VIC Country
</td>
<td valign="top">
$255,500
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
8.30%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
1.79%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-2.15%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-1.65%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Perth
</td>
<td valign="top">
$379,000
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
9.33%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-6.65%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-2.43%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-0.76%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
WA Country
</td>
<td valign="top">
$297,000
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
6.92%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-5.28%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-0.17%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-1.93%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
$485,500
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
5.05%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
2.77%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-0.54%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
0.42%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
NSW Country
</td>
<td valign="top">
$302,500
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
6.98%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-0.39%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
0.75%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
0.49%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Australia
</td>
<td valign="top">
$394,500
</td>
<td width="57" valign="top">
6.62%
</td>
<td width="63" valign="top">
-1.57%
</td>
<td width="69" valign="top">
-0.98%
</td>
<td width="59" valign="top">
-0.52%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: Residex
 
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

Sydney the only capital city with rising unit prices: Residex

<html><body>
A Sydney hotelier's licence has been listed for sale with 13 gaming machine entitlements.
The licence also includes a social impact assessment for 23 gaming machines, which Property Partnership Australia listing agent Craig Hibbard says is “extremely rare”.
He told The Shout newsletter the licence could be reactivated almost anywhere in the City of Sydney local government area without the scrutiny of having to do a new assessment as required under NSW gaming laws.
As well as appealing to existing hoteliers, Hibbard said the licence could provide value to a number of new developments in the city and fringe.
Hibbard pointed to the recent $1.3 million sale of the licence at Sydney's Trumps Tavern – which had entitlements for 15 machines – as a benchmark.
 
 
 
</body></html>

Transient Sydney hotelier licence with 13 pokie entitlements up for sale

<html><body>
<table style="width: 465px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
Suburb
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
Postcode
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
Rental median for houses
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
CLONTARF
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
2093
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
$1,395
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
BALGOWLAH HEIGHTS
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
2093
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
$1,350
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
BAYVIEW
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
2104
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
$1,100
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
MANLY
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
2095
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
$1,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
SEAFORTH
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
2092
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
$995
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
NORTH BALGOWLAH
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
2093
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
$950
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
CHURCH POINT
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
2105
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
$900
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
BALGOWLAH
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
2093
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
$895
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
FRESHWATER
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
2096
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
$895
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="228" nowrap valign="bottom">
PALM BEACH
</td>
<td width="119" valign="bottom">
2108
</td>
<td width="119" nowrap valign="bottom">
$890
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Source: RP Data
</body></html>

cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Top 10 most expensive suburbs in Sydney's northern beaches for house rentals

<html><body>
The Master Builders Association has called for further rate cuts following the release of ABS figures showing total seasonally adjusted residential building work done fell by 1.1% to $11.4 billion in the September 2011 quarter.
The figure would have been worse were it not for the value of major renovations work done growing by 0.9% over the September quarter to be up by 6.3% on the same quarter one year earlier.
Excluding renovations, new residential building work done fell by 1.5% to be down by 5.2% on the September 2010 quarter.
The biggest drop in new residential building work done occurred in South Australia, where the value of work fell by 15.5%, followed by Tasmania (12.1%), ACT (8.6%) and WA (6.3%).
New residential work done rose by 5.5% in New South Wales, 3.3% in Victoria and just 0.2% in Queensland, despite the $10,000 on offer as part of the state government’s building boost program.
MBA chief economist Peter Jones says the figures “confirm evidence from Master Builders’ latest survey showing dramatic turnaround in builder sentiment as commercial and residential building-related stimulus spending programs come to an end”.
“They also confirm that MBA information that builders are suffering a downturn in sales and enquiries.”
“The tough business environment is not being helped by volatility in the world economy and investor caution,” he says.
“A negative growth trend is firmly established in both the residential and commercial or non-residential building sectors, with no indication that conditions will turn around without policy change.”
Outside of residential building, construction work done surged by 12.5% for the quarter, to be 18.1% up from a year ago (inflation-adjusted).  This was the strongest quarterly construction growth rate since the commencement of this series in 1986.
Jones attributed this surge in construction activity to mega-mining projects ramping up, particularly in Western Australia during the September quarter and in Queensland the previous quarter.
“A sectoral divide has opened up in the building and construction industry, with booming engineering construction fed by the mining boom contrasting with a weak building sector caught in the slow lane of a post GFC economy struggling to transition to a private sector led recovery.”
“The 1.5% decline in new residential work done reflects a 2.6% decline in detached housing which was partially offset by a 3.4% increase in ‘other dwellings’,” noted HIA acting chief economist Andrew Harvey. 
“Today’s result suggests that new dwelling investment will detract from GDP growth in the September quarter national accounts, due for release in two weeks’ time,” he says. 
Westpac notes the two-speed nature of the economy, with construction work in the third quarter well in excess of expectations, private residential building activity flat, and public building and public infrastructure work declining. 
“For the RBA, from a policy perspective, the patchy conditions in the broader economy would remain a concern,” the bank says.
 
</body></html>

Latest Investing Insights

Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Investing Insights

Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News