Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.

For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.

Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.

"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;

Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.

Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."

The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.

"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

What does it really mean for a building to be 'green'?

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

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First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

Prominent New Zealand apartment and hotel operator, <a href="/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>, is offering up a prime investment opportunity for Australians to purchase off the plan in one of the world’s most popular ski destinations.

They recently took to market Mountain Oak Queenstown Apartments, in the growing precinct of Remarkables Park in Frankton, near the airport and at the foot of The Remarkables - the mountain range the locals like to call “The Remarks”.&nbsp;

Sydney investors have shown interest in the one, two and three-bedroom apartments that secure high-season occupancy six months over the year, primarily over summer and winter months.

They average 90 per cent occupancy across their portfolio over January, February, March, August, November and December, while shoulder season months of April, July, September and October are still occupied 70 per cent of the time, with the growing appeal of Queenstown becoming not just a hotspot for the snow, but a lifestyle destination.

Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Safari’s Safari Hotels arm can also manage the holiday letting for an investor, from the listing on holiday accommodation websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com to the cleaning and maintenance of the investment. They’ve been in the short stay management business for 15 years and offer 24/7 support for investors, an important convenience benefit for any overseas investor

Another major drawcard for Australians is that New Zealand doesn’t have a stamp duty policy - so the entry price of NZ$639,000 (AU$586,000), is all that is payable on completion.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Safari is starting construction of the 141 apartments in Q2 this year, with a two-year build estimated to complete in mid-to-late 2027.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczFpFAb7WuA6f4f9TtKWcqXyNwR8qqtakWv352ERkpqNlP3KwIo8YKxw67jZNHfpjEGIZGv5MQTbnvLZwNt8iu9IVdOrswOjCvBZ4zhSoOOLrpt6etVEZTN1gkBho0r_R72zdHNA?key=yq3daOanqHSb88QFd8jGYKdb" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />​

The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;

Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.

With its strategic location near Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, as well as key retail and dining precincts such as Market Street, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and Remarkables Market, Mountain Oak offers a strong proposition for investors seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after locations.&nbsp;

Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.

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

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The growing demand among Australian commercial investors and developers for food-based retail shopping centres has been partly vindicated by a comprehensive European survey that has found that two-thirds of online shoppers are happy to purchase clothing and footwear without trying them on.
Only a third of the 10,000 European shoppers surveyed by CBRE described the “touch and feel” in-store experience as important or extremely important.
Furthermore, the survey found that clothing and footwear are among the internet’s fastest-growing retail categories, particularly among younger shoppers, who also use the internet to buy computer games and music.
Perhaps most telling for Australian fashion retailers, online-only fashion store ASOS is the UK’s fastest-growing retailer.
Overall, two-fifths of the 10,000 shoppers surveyed by CBRE between May and June 2011 in Great Britain, France, Germany, Sweden, Spain, Italy, Poland, Belgium, Hungary and Russia said they shopped online.
However, the survey also found that the physical store remains an essential part of the shopping experience, with 90% of people stating they visit shops to view products before buying online.
Recent research by Knight Frank forecast strong demand for food-based neighbourhood shopping centres in 2012 from private investors, unlisted property trusts and syndicates.
Following publication of annual results, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/commercial/retail/stockland-plans-smaller-regional-shopping-centres-to-combat-online-threat/2011081051105">Stockland said its new shopping centres would have a higher proportion of food, leisure, retail services and entertainment offerings</a> following research that found that higher-end fashion is more exposed to online sales.
In its annual results <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/coles-and-woolies-help-mirvac-deliver-30-profit-increase/2011082351258">Mirvac revealed that Coles and Woolies accounting for a quarter of rental income</a> of it retail portfolio with fashion stores contributing a combined 19%.
Despite only canvassing the opinions of European shoppers, CBRE senior manager for retail services James McNeill says the results are likely to be closely monitored by Australian retailers, given the intense focus on the impact of online retailing.
“Although it’s clear that an online presence is now vital for any leading international brand, our research shows that the most successful retailers are those who understand how consumer channels such as online and in-store combine to create a truly multi-channel offering,” he says.
“A store supplemented with an online presence is the best of both worlds in most cases.”
In a recent report, Savills head of research Tony Crabb said shopping centres would need to follow retail strips and start offering products and services that could not be provided via the internet such as food vendors and hair salons.
Savills associate director of retail services Michael Di Carlo says retailers should also investigate the latest technological innovations such at the “multi-channel retailing concept”, which is now the norm in the US and Europe.
Such a multi-channel approach is being pushed by shopping centre giant Westfield, which revealed in its half-year results today that it has signed up 140 retailers to its westfield.com.au transactional site.
In western Europe the propensity to shop online correlates with wealth – 61% of higher earners shop online compared with 44% of lower earners, according to CBRE.
Men are leading the online shopping charge, the survey also found.
Photo courtesy of Tourism Victoria
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Food-based retail a safer investment as two-thirds of European fashion customers happy to shop online

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/october24kewell]}
Soccer champion Harry Kewell has reportedly taken a $3,250 a week newly built Brighton rental property as his Melbourne base.
The Nicholas Day-designed property was briefly marketed by Hocking Stuart as the "finest fusion of style, space and quality", with a $3.3 million asking price.
But the three-level house has been withdrawn and reportedly the Kewell family will move into the rental residence, according to The Sunday Age.
It would reflect a 5% yield if the undisclosed, unconfirmed figures are correct.
The Brighton suburb was identified as the location in an earlier Herald Sun report.
Since his arrival last month to play for the Melbourne Victory, Kewell has been staying at Crown.
The couple, Kewell and his wife, the soap star Sheree Murphy, had inspected more than a dozen properties in exclusive neighbourhoods starting in Toorak and then in the bayside suburbs.
The neo-Georgian style house comes with a mix of the contemporary and classic elegance.
With three children and a fourth due in February, the couple will appreciate the four large living zones, plus four bedrooms, and huge retreat.
It was built by former St Kilda defender Max Hudghton's Maxton Constructions for a development syndicate headed by the former St Kilda champion Fraser Gehrig.
Buyers agent Mal James gave it a 604 rating out of 1,000 when he reviewed the property on its sale listing.
He noted it was the big, wide one of the recently built pair.
"The kitchen is grand and in logical possie for dining and outdoors,” James noted.
"The pool is in the smart position to get sun (south-facing rear) and allow entertainment.”
James noted it was of a high quality throughout but lacked a clothes line.
There is an excellent rear children's wing plus a good downstairs basement with big garage and additional entertainment rooms suitable for a home cinema.
James concluded that a lift would have taken it to the next price level.
It comes with a church spire in the background.
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Harry Kewell reportedly kicks off Brighton rental

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Commercial property investor sentiment in Australia (alongside New Zealand and Taiwan) has remained upbeat in tandem with a particurlarly positive outlook for the Pacific region, according to CBRE’s latest Investment ViewPoint report. 
With the Australian economy in good shape relative to other regions, the report says the country’s commercial property sector is “something of a safe haven for investors away from the instability currently affecting the United States and Europe”. 
“Barring any major shocks or other unforeseen events, the outlook for the next few months is positive and there is a strong pipeline of deals, particularly in Australia, Japan, Korea and Singapore,” says CBRE executive director of global research and consulting Kevin Stanley. 
The September report highlights a steady flow of transactions in Australia underpinned by sustained offshore buyer demand for quality office properties. 
Noteworthy transactions included the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/office/chinese-investors-snap-up-sydney-office-tower-for-%24117-million/2011091351519" target="_blank">$117 million acquisition by Chinese multinational HNA Group of a 22-storey office building at 1 York Street</a>. 
HNA, whose core business is focused on air travel, logistics and financial services, has previously acquired property in New York. 
Rick Butler, CBRE senior managing director of international investments, says it remains to be seen if this deal will herald a significant pick-up in Chinese investment activity in Australia. 
“Whilst the deal is certainly an interesting one, it is not likely to mark the beginning of an immediate trend towards increased Chinese investment in Australian commercial property,” he says. 
While future investment from Chinese firms is uncertain, for the year to date offshore buyers have remained very active in Australia, accounting for $3.19 billion in deals – or 40% of commercial real estate transactions (the highest share in close to two decades). 
“Investors from overseas continue to seek exposure to the quality end of the office sector and Asian investors in particular are stepping up their presence,” Butler says. 
“Deals for a number of major office properties in Sydney and Melbourne have recently closed or are going through due diligence and the bulk of these involve a foreign buyer. Offshore groups are stealing the march on most domestic super funds and wholesale funds, which with a few exceptions have been inactive in recent months and are unlikely to enter the market until mid-2012.” 
The only exceptions to the positive outlook for Asia were Hong Kong and India, where the mood soured further during September, with investors becoming more risk-averse and demanding further discounts on property asking prices.
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Investor interest to remain strong for Australian commercial property: CBRE

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Sydney has the highest number of renters as well as the highest percentage of mortgage holders at risk of falling into poverty, according to a new national study.
More than 106,000 people who rent in Sydney face difficulties meeting the basic costs of living, according to Housing Costs Through the Roof, a report compiled by the National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling at the University of Canberra on behalf of Australians for Affordable Housing.
The report examined households that earned the lowest 40% of incomes – taking family size into account – who spend 30% or more of their earnings on rent or mortgage payments.
On this basis, over 73,000 or 12% of mortgage holders in Sydney are in housing stress, with the figures even higher for first-home buyers, with 15% (just over 15,000) struggling to make ends meet.
<img src="/images/stories/housingstressnsw.gif">
Nationally, the report found that one in 10 households (over 850,000) are in housing stress, with the highest rates of housing stress felt by renters and first-home buyers, with 26% of renters and 15% for first-home buyers in housing stress.
In percentage terms, Hobart has the highest number of renters in housing stress, with one in three falling into this category. In addition, more than a quarter (26%) of Hobart first-home buyers are in mortgage stress, despite the Tasmanian capital having one of the cheapest housing markets and the smallest average first-home loan at under $195,000.
Other key findings of the report are that first-home buyers in Melbourne are more likely to experience housing stress than those in Sydney while Commonwealth Rent Assistance recipients in Adelaide had the highest rates of rental stress.
Commenting on the findings, Australians for Affordable Housing campaign manager Sarah Toohey says there is “an entrenched and significant group of people in Australia who face day-to-day hardship because of their housing costs, but it doesn’t have to be this way”.
“There are clear actions that governments can take to improve housing affordability and take the pressure off these households,” she says.
“A secure home is a fundamental building block for everything else we do in life. We need to create a housing system that works for everyone.”
Australians for Affordable Housing is a coalition of national housing, welfare and community sector organisations to highlight the problem of housing affordability in Australia.
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More Sydney home owners and renters in housing stress than any other capital

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Melbourne’s residential vacancy rate has hit 3%, the highest of all the capital cities, following an increase of 0.2% during the month of September, according to figures compiled by SQM Research. 
There are now 10,926 properties available to rent in Melbourne, compared with 10,197 in August and just 7,986 a year ago, equating to an annual increase of 0.8%. 
Hobart was the other capital city to register a 0.2% monthly increase, while Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra recorded monthly increases of 0.1% in line with the national increase in vacancy rates, which now stands at 48,179 properties available to rent, a vacancy rate of 1.9%. 
According to SQM Research, the national vacancy rate has “hovered around 1.8% to 1.9% for the last few months, which may be an indirect result of the continuous lack of buyer interest in the housing sales market of late”. 
Managing director of SQM research Louis Christopher says Melbourne is the one exception to the expectation that national vacancy will remain in a fixed range for the foreseeable future. 
“It is very possible we will see Melbourne vacancies continue to rise from here as there is, even at this point in time, new stock still just being completed now,” Christopher says. 
The Sydney vacancy rate remained unchanged at 1.4% in September, equating to 7,769 properties listed for rent an increase of just 0.2% over the year. 
<img src="/images/stories/sqmvacancy.gif">
Of the major capital cities, Perth has the fewest available properties to rent at just 1,559 after the city’ vacancy rate fell by 0.1% over September to stand at just 0.9%. 
SQM’s calculations of vacancies are based on online rental listings that have been advertised for three weeks or more compared to the total number of established rental properties.
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Melbourne's vacancy rate climbs to 3% and could continue to grow: SQM Research

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Greedy vendors and scare tactics from the Reserve Bank have flushed scores of investors out of the WA residential market.
Leading estate agent Geoff Baldwin, managing director of RE/MAX, believes that the Perth market is full of “dead stock” that has languished because of owners’ wishful thinking.
“Investors usually represent about 25% of buyers in Perth and this has fallen to a low of 10%. They are not likely to return to the market until vendor expectation meets market conditions and the Reserve Bank stops scaring people with threats of rate rises,” Baldwin says.
Figures released by the Real Estate Institute of WA reveal that listings have tumbled by 11% since the end of June.
REIWA head of research Stewart Darby says the fall in listings is due to people withdrawing their properties from sale. The REIWA research shows that 15,500 residential properties are currently for sale.
Baldwin believes this figure is closer to 18,000 and says a large proportion of these properties were bought at the peak of the boom.
“People are being squeezed out by a tough economy, interest rates and unemployment. Many buyers committed 50% of their income to their mortgage, and deposits were just 5%. It does not take much to push many overextended home owners over the financial edge,” Baldwin says.
“This two-speed economy in WA can be hard on people that are not working within the resources sector. People just are not prepared to take a hit on their home when they first list is for sale and by the time they accept their situation it has become far worse, more money has been put on the mortgage and the value of their property has dropped further.”
He says he refuses to list houses he deems “unsalable”.
The agent recently sold a house in suburban Perth where the vendor had to borrow money from his family in order to settle the sale.
“We reduced our commission and the bank helped in its own way. While this is extreme, we should expect to see more sales where there is negative equity. As people come to terms with values, investors should slowly return to more stable market,” he says.
RP Data-Rismark’s Hedonic Home Value Index has Perth’s median house price at $455,000, which is down 6.3% on last year’s July quarter figure of $475,000.
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Unrealistic vendor expectations flooding Perth market with 'dead stock'

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/october20noosaheads]}
The 103-hectare Noosa Springs golf course and masterplanned residential community in Noosa Heads has been listed for sale. 
Developed by the StarCo Group since 1997, the property development business run by the local Starkey family, it has long been considered one of the jewels in the Sunshine Coast property market and one of the most sought-after residential golfing communities. 
Up for sale are the two remaining development sites, a subdivided residential lot along with the 18-hole championship golf course, clubhouse, spa and other facilities that make up the masterplanned development. 
The assets, which are available to be purchased in one line or individually, are being marketed via an international expression-of-interest campaign by Dean Humphries and Ben McGrath from Jones Lang LaSalle. 
The listing of Noosa Springs follows a number of other prominent residential and leisure listings in the troubled Sunshine Coast market. 
These include <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/offers-over-%2430-million-sought-for-austcorp-s-coomera-waters-gold-coast-development/2011101851986?source=flciker2" target="_blank">Austcorp Group’s masterplanned 476-hectare Coomera Waters development</a> on the Gold Coast, which was recently put up for sale with price expectations of between $30 million and $40 million. 
In September <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/sea-temple-development-seeks-golfing-devotees/2011091551565" target="_blank">the luxury Sea Temple Golf and Country Club in Port Douglas</a> as well as the adjoining housing estate were put up for sale by the Juniper Development Group. 
Also in September, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/clive-palmer-buys-distressed-golf-courses-at-discount/2011092051616" target="_blank">Queensland billionaire and mining supremo Clive Palmer paid about $7 mining for the Robina Woods and The Colonial</a> golf courses on the Gold Coast. 
The larger of the two Noosa Springs development sites measure 4.262 hectares, with full approval for up to 155 apartments and facilities, while the smaller site measures 1.1 hectares with potential for up to 43 apartments.
One of the prized assets is likely to be the 72-par golf course designed by golf course architect Graham Papworth to fit in with the local tropical environment and rated one of the best in Australia.
Other facilities up for sale include the day spa, restaurant, conferencing and function venue, boutique fitness centre and resort accommodation – featuring management rights for 32 apartments – and the Oasis, a residential subdivision with 26 vacant lots.
The gated residential community and resort facility is three kilometres from Hastings Street in Noosa Heads and is due to comprise of 300 homes, extensive sport and leisure facilities, and resort accommodation of up to 240 apartments upon completion.
McGrath says a large number of homes have been completed and sold over the past 15 years. 
“There is now the opportunity for an investor or developer to acquire the last remaining tracts of land and develop a further 198 owner-occupied or investment apartments. These sites are serviced with development approvals in place. There are also 26 residential allotments bordering the golf course that can be purchased in-one-line,” he adds. 
Humphries expects interest from resort-type investors and developers. 
“The ability to complete a 200 key world-class resort with these key facilities already in place is ideal, he says. 
“Noosa Springs currently generates a strong established cash flow and runs a healthy trading surplus from its highly successful golf course, spa and function facilities, allowing for a new investor to benefit from an attractive holding return whilst they sell down or develop the last remaining tracts of land,” he adds. 
According to RP Data, the median house price in Noosa Heads has fallen 16% since 2008 to $647,000 while units are down 24% to $570,000 over the same period. 
A research report put out by PRD Nationwide in July forecast the Sunshine Coast residential market to recover at a slower pace than the Brisbane market with expectations that it would remain flat until at least the end of 2011. 
Expression of interest close on November 16.
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Another Queensland golf course for sale

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Sydneysiders are leaving the city as it becomes increasingly congested and housing supply dries up, according to the federal government’s State of Australian Cities 2011 report. 
Between 2001 and 2010 Melbourne increased its population by more than 600,000 while Sydney’s grew by less than 450,000, with Sydney’s net population growth the result of international migrant arrivals outpacing departing local residents. 
In comparison, Melbourne remains a destination for many international migrants, but is also losing fewer internal migrants and consequently is growing more rapidly than Sydney. 
The report reveals the Sydney’s inner and middle city zones are becoming increasingly congested in comparison with Melbourne and Perth.
While the central local government areas of Perth and Melbourne both experienced rapid growth alongside Sydney as CBD and surrounding areas were redeveloped with higher-density housing, this trend was most pronounced in the City of Sydney, which added 52,530 residents and was a significant share of Sydney’s population growth (11.7%) in the period 2001 to 2010.
Overall, around 54% of Sydney’s population growth over the last 10 years has occurred in its inner city and middle city zones, with only 46% occurring in the outer suburbs. 
In comparison, 61% of Melbourne population growth has occurred in the outer suburbs, while more than two-thirds of Perth’s expansion (69%) has occurred on the outer edges of the city.
According to the report, Melbourne’s growth was concentrated on the city’s western, northern and south-eastern fringes with Perth’s population growth even more heavily concentrated in urban fringe developments, particularly those with coastal proximity.
In addition, Sydney is suffering from the state’s inability to build enough residential dwellings with NSW continuing to fall behind Victoria in the pipeline of new houses, semi-detached houses and apartments approved for construction. 
Figures for 2008 - 2009 and for 2010 - 2011 show that while NSW nearly doubled the number of apartments and units approved from 6,000 to 11,000 over these periods Victoria increased its pipeline from 6,000 to more than 17,000. 
Furthermore, while Victoria has over 35,000 houses approved for construction for 2010 – 2011, NSW has less than half that at just over 16,000.
Urban Taskforce chief executive-designate Chris Johnson says the report singles out Sydney for “dishonourable mention” and highlights that while there is a 200,000 housing gap between supply and demand, it is particurlarly severe in Australia’s largest city. 
“This report clearly shows that Sydney’s lack of new housing is driving people away from the city that they know and love,” Johnson says. 
Johnson says Sydney is not fulfilling its potential as a “hub for compact, pedestrian friendly living”. 
According to Johnson the housing supply crisis in Sydney and NSW is showing no sign of abating. 
“In the last quarter alone, work started on just 6,700 new homes in NSW, compared with 14,700 in Victoria and 6,000 in Queensland. 
“In fact, the June quarter saw new housing starts fall by 20% in NSW while Victoria saw an increase of 4.5%. 
“No capital city produces less homes per head of population than Sydney.” 
With large proportion of new jobs (50% to 70%) located in the outer suburbs in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, Johnson says investment in new public transport to connect outer suburban communities to the urban core is vital. 
“It’s disappointing that the release of this report has not been accompanied by any commitment by the federal hovernment to fund the new and improved arterial roads essential for urban growth, nor any commitment by the federal government to fund the north-west rail link in Sydney.”</body></html>

Sydneysiders driven out by housing undersupply and congestion: Report

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The Century Centre in the Parramatta CBD has been listed for sale for the first time on behalf of private developer Capital Corporation, which is seeking about $50 million for the 12-storey A-grade office building. 
The building is located in the business hub of Parramatta CBD between George and Macquarie streets on a heritage-listed site steeped in history. It sits above the convict-built sandstone barrel-drains that run under Church, George, Smith, Charles and Macquarie streets. A portion of the drains can be viewed via a glass floor in the building’s foyer. 
<img src="/images/stories/parramattaoffice.jpg">
The listing of the building located at 18 Smith Street (and commonly referred to by that name) follows the latest Property Council office vacancy statistics showing that Parramatta’s A-grade vacancy rate was just 2.4% as at July 2011. 
The Parramatta office market, often referred to as Sydney’s second CBD, has been among the most actively leased markets over the last year, with Savills reporting an 81% increase in the take-up of office space for the 12 months to June 2011. 
According to Savills, the Parramatta CBD, which comprises about 685,000 square metres of stock, is expected to benefit from a strong recovery in the Sydney CBD market. 
The Century Centre has a net lettable area of approximately 12,000 square metres and includes parking for 166 cars. It is located approximately 150 metres from the Parramatta bus/rail interchange and close to Westfield Parramatta. 
It was completed in 1999 by Cencorp Property Group, which merged with Capital Corporation in May 2008. 
It recently underwent a $4.8 million refurbishment that included a stylish foyer makeover, the revamping of common areas and the installation of an air-conditioning system, which resulted in its NABERS energy rating being upgraded from 2.5 stars to four stars. 
It is anchor tenanted by Telstra subsidiary NDC (the original anchor tenant), which recently recommitted to 6,600 square metres of space in the building. Other major tenants include Suncorp, which occupies 2,490 square metres of space, alongside Pepper Australia and Employers Mutual, which recently leased 1,140 square metres and 770 square metres of space respectively.
CBRE’s Greg Cohen and Michael Brislane in tandem with Frank Sassine and John McCann of Colliers International will jointly market the building, which is expected to draw interest from both institutional buyers and private investors. 
Cohen says the building’s location in the financial core of the Parramatta CBD is expected to underpin interest in the sale campaign. 
“This is the first A-grade Parramatta building to be offered via an on-market campaign in recent years,” he says.
According to Colliers’ Frank Sassine Parramatta’s strong market fundamentals are expected to underpin interest in the sale.
“Further analysis, indicates only two opportunities are currently available for tenants seeking A grade office space greater than 1,000sqm and there no options for those tenants looking at more than 2,000 sqm of contiguous A grade space,” he says. 
“As a result, rental growth has commenced, in particular for the A Grade market, and this is expected to continue given the lack of new supply in Parramatta,” Sassine said. 
Proceeds from the sale of the Century Centre will be reinvested in future Capital Corporation development projects including MCentral Macquarie Park, AXIS @Sydney Olympic Park and residential developments in Mascot and  Rosebery. 
Expressions of interest will close in late November.
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Parramatta office tower on the market for about $50 million

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University of Western Sydney associate professor of economics Steve Keen believes property prices may fall, peak to trough, by 20% through 2013, warning the most recent peak in prices may be the last one for some time.

But where house prices go over the next year depends mostly on employment growth and interest rates, says SQM managing director Louis Christopher, who warns predictions without significant modelling behind them cannot necessarily be relied upon.
"We need to see a lot more detailed analysis about these sorts of predictions," he says.
<a href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/Article/property-interest-rates-RBA-eurozone-debt-crisis-h-pd20111019-MS7H7?OpenDocument&amp;src=sph">In an interview with Business Spectator</a>, Keen says prices could fall by 20% through 2013 from their most recent peak.
"I'd be quite happy now to say the last price peak was the overall peak and so I'd expect something of the order of a 20% fall between now and say the end of 2013," he says.
"I think you could tie me down to saying I'd expect something of the order of a 20% fall from peak to trough, whatever the peak might be, whatever the trough's going to be."
Keen has previously made headlines for predicting that prices would fall by as much as 40% over a decade or 15-year period. Now, he tips that not only will house prices fall, but that as China's growth slows down, economic conditions in Australia will soften.
As a consequence, the country could see rising levels of unemployment.
"You know, it's murky data, but the trend appears to be for rising unemployment now and of course the falling house prices at the same time," he said.
"So I think the 'everything is wonderful here' argument partially is based on the important role of China, but it's also based on the same delusion that made Iceland think it was hot shit before it fell apart."
However, Christopher warns that while prices have fallen in some cities, there are too many variables to necessarily come up with a "nice round number".
"We need to look at questions like, what are his assumptions for interest rates over that time? Is he factoring in economic Armageddon or not? What are his assumptions for government stimulus?"
"Our forecasts are that if rates remain unchanged we will see, in some cities, a 15% decline from peak to trough, but we simply don't know the future direction for interest rates."
Christopher says the real question is employment growth and how global economic turmoil will affect that. But overall, he says, it's hard to come up with "big round numbers".
"We understand fundamentally there are plenty of problems with global systems of debt, I agree with that. But there needs to be a lot of detailed analysis around these types of predictions."
This article originally appeared on<a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/property/20111020-house-prices-may-fall-20-by-2013-steve-keen-predicts" target="_blank"> SmartCompany</a>.
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