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>
Vendors who list their properties through NSW agency Starr Partners will have the option of including a warranty to cover property and appliance repairs in the first 12 months of s sale.
The policy will cost $499, with vendors given the opportunity to opt in before settlement and transfer the warranty to the buyer’s name during settlement. Optional extras such as air conditoner and washing machine cover can be added at an additional cost.
Starr Partners is the first agency in Australia to offer this style of protection, which is already a $1.5 billion business in the US, according to Warranty Week.
The scheme is particurlar popular in the troubled California market, where buyers continue topurchase home warranties as part of existing home sales at a rate of approximately nine out of every 10 transactions.
Billy Jensen, president of the Home Warranty Association of California, attributes growth to the state’s home warranty industry to increased recognition that managing household expenses is paramount during a challenging economy.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/starraugust3.jpg">
Source: Warranty Week (US figures)
Starr Safeguard will cover a property’s major systems including electricals, plumbing, lock systems and minor roof damage as well as the major appliances (hot water system, stove, cooktop and dishwasher).
The launch of the cover follows a survey of 200 people by Starr Partners that found strong support for the concept.
Almost 90% of respondents said they were either concerned or very concerned about the ability to cover additional costs that might arise in your first year of ownership, and 97% said a warranty was either important or very important to making a purchase.
Nearly all respondents said a home warranty would be a benefit when buying a house.
Douglas Driscoll, Starr Partners CEO, says the warranty will fills the gap in the market. “Home and contents insurance can cover property damage due to flood or fire. Building inspections usually focus on the structure and building work. Starr Safeguard, on the other hand, covers single items that fail – for example, plumbing failures due to blockages by tree roots.”
Driscoll says vendors also benefit from home buyer cover giving buyers confidence and peace of mind that potential problems may be covered.
“It also covers the seller throughout the selling process. For instance, if a covered hot-water system blows just before the sale, Starr Safeguard will contribute to its repair or replacement,” he says.
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Real estate agency introduces home buyers home warranty initiative

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august3barnesy]}

Rock legend Jimmy Barnes and his wife, Jane, have listed their NSW Southern Highlands riverfront weekender, Riverbend, at Berrima with $2.5 million hopes.

The Barneses, who live in a Botany warehouse compound, just don’t make enough use of the sandstone house on 2,758 square metres, especially now that’s Jimmy’s back on the tour road.

The Berrima house cost the Cold Chisel frontman $1.85 million in 2008.

Gwen Meredith, the scriptwriter for Australia's longest-running and much-loved radio serial Blue Hills, once owned the property on the Wingecarribee River, a retreat from her Seaforth home, Braybrook.

It is located in a quiet setting just a short stroll from the historic village.

Listing agent Drew Lindsay at Drew Lindsay Bowral describes it as three solid sandstone pavilions linked by long covered verandas that jut over the river.

It features a renovated cook's kitchen, four bedrooms and bathrooms, a pool, a jetty, and stone walkways through established gardens.

Notably missing is a recording studio, a feature in Barnes' current Botany property and his earlier Southern Highland retreat.

<h2>Properties you may be interested in:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24323]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6912]
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Jimmy Barnes lists Highlands weekender on eve of Cold Chisel tour

<html><body>
Sentiment towards property investment remains surprisingly strong, though potential investors are steering clear of Perth, according to a new survey.
Nearly two-thirds (59%) of the 2,200 investors and home buyers surveyed by Metropole Property Investment plan to buy an investment property over the next year.
Although Perth is the epicentre of the mining boom, investors appear unwilling to speculate on the WA capital, with only 9% expecting it to show good capital growth over the next two years.
<img src="/images/stories/yardneyaugust3.jpg">
According to Michael Yardney, founder of Metropole, investors are responding to the current poor market sentiment and are not willing to think long term.
“Perth has shown the least growth over the past 12 months. Investors are only interested in what has recently happened as opposed to what might happen in the future,” Yardney says.
“Most people miss the bottom of the market because they are waiting for the good news. They want certainty and comfort. There are too many mixed messages coming out of the market – they don’t want to speculate.”
According to ABS June quarter statistics, the values of established houses in Perth have dropped by 4.1% compared with the same quarter in 2010, the biggest drop of all capital city markets.
Seasonally adjusted data for June, released by RP Data-Rismark, shows the Perth housing market down 4.7% on the year, with a median price of $461,000.
Brisbane house prices are down by an even greater amount over this period, according to RP Data-Rismark (6.3%).
However, Metropole survey respondents are more optimistic about Queensland’s capital city, with 16% choosing it as the best place to invest.
Current market sentiment did not appear to factor in the minds of respondents when it came to Melbourne and Sydney.
The currently flat Sydney market is still seen as a safe bet by more than a quarter (28%) of respondents, while Melbourne came in a close second with 23% of the vote.
Melbourne was rated the weakest-performing capital city in the June quarter by RP Data-Rismark, with values down 2% compared with the same time last year. A similar decline was recorded in the ABS June quarter results.
Only 5% of respondents expect Adelaide property values to grow strongly over the next two years, with mining towns and regional towns equally unpopular.
Alongside the positive outlook for property investment, nearly a fifth of respondents plan to buy a new home in the next year.
The positive findings about property investment come despite 43% of respondents expecting property prices to fall over the next year, compared with only 27% who expected prices to fall when surveyed six months ago.
Yardney says the message from the survey is that despite all the negative message sentiment, many Australians are still keen to take advantage of the current market and buy their first homes, upgrade their current homes or buy investment properties. 
“And they’re willing to make sacrifices to ensure this happens.” 
The biggest concern of investors and buyers is obtaining finance, though this has fallen from 33% six months ago to 28% followed by economic uncertainty and negative cash flow. 
Metropole respondents said they were willing to make major lifestyle sacrifices (food, alcohol, day to day spending, buying a cheaper property) to get onto the property ladder, which concurs with the results of a survey by Mortgage Choice in July.
</body></html>

Property investors still prospecting, but Perth's off the table

<html><body>
The RBA has left interest rates on hold for the eighth straight meeting.
The cash rate remains at 4.75%. It was last raised by 25 basis points in November last year.
Before the decision, economists were split over whether the central bank would raise interest rates following higher-than-forecast CPI figures for the June quarter.
Annual inflation currently stands at 3.6%, outside of the RBA’s target band of between 2% and 3%.
Concerns over continued economic woes in Europe and the US were factors identified as inhibiting a rate rise.
The Australian dollar hardly changed in response to the news, trading at $1.097 off a day high of $1.10.
A statement by RBA governor Glenn Stevens following today’s decision revealed that global concerns outweighed domestic inflation worries.
“At today's meeting, the board considered whether the recent information warranted further policy tightening. On balance, the Board judged that it was prudent to maintain the current setting of monetary policy, particularly in view of the acute sense of uncertainty in global financial markets over recent weeks. In future meetings, the board will continue to assess carefully the evolving outlook for growth and inflation,” Stevens says.
Stevens says downside risks to the global economy have increased, however, as concerns have grown over the outlook for the public finances of both Europe and the United States.
On the issue of inflation, Stevens said year-ended CPI inflation has been high, affected by the extreme weather events earlier in the year.
“As these effects reverse over the next couple of quarters, CPI inflation should decline. But measures that give a better indication of the trend in inflation have begun to rise over the past six months, after declining for the previous two years. While they have, to date, remained consistent with the 2 to 3% target on a year-ended basis, the board remains concerned about the medium-term outlook for inflation,” he says.
Commenting on the RBA’s decision, RP Data national research director Tim Lawless says Australians have become very interest rate-sensitive, a fact that can be seen in the low number of transactions across the housing market and weak growth in retail spending.
“At a time when inflation has risen outside of the RBA’s comfort zone we also have a situation where consumers simply aren’t spending and are lacking confidence. The stability in interest rates over the past nine months would have been welcomed by many mortgage holders, however speculation about future rate lifts is likely to continue to dampen market conditions anyway,” he says.
The RBA’s decision to keep rates on hold follows ABS data that reveals the magnitude of house price falls as well as the continued deterioration of the home building sector.
House prices have fallen by 1.9% across capital city markets for the year to June 2011, with the biggest falls in Perth and Brisbane, while home building approvals fell to a two-year low in June 2011.
The seasonally adjusted estimate for total dwellings approved fell 3.5% following a fall of 6.3% in the previous month, according to ABS figures.
“Evidence continues to mount of an accelerated deterioration in new home building conditions,” says HIA chief economist Harley Dale.
“That situation highlights the appropriateness of continued steady interest rates, the need for stimulus to arrest the new housing decline, and the importance of reform at the October Tax Forum to remove the excessive taxation levied on new residential construction,” Dale says.
Westpac said building approvals were significantly weaker than expected in June, with surprising weakness noted in Queensland.
“They are now 19.6% lower since December - a surprise given that initial falls were mainly due to disruptions from weather events in January to February that were expected to see a significant bounce mid-year as activity returned to normal in affected areas and rebuilding activity came through,” says Julie Doel from Westpac Economics.
“Instead, approvals recorded a partial revival in March (+8.1% for the month) but have moved steadily lower since. Some of this may be because of approval waivers for post-flood rebuilds in parts of Queensland.”
</body></html>

RBA keeps rates on hold for eighth straight month

<html><body>
Property prices continue to fall as preliminary estimates show that the price index for established houses for the eight capital cities decreased 1.9% in the year to June quarter 2011.
Annually house prices decreased in Perth by 4.1%, Brisbane by 3.6%, Darwin by 3.0%, Adelaide by 2.1%, Melbourne by 2%, and Sydney by 0.7%.
The only two cities to record a rise were Hobart, where prices rose 2.8% and Canberra, where prices rose 2.2%.
In the June quarter the price index for established houses for the eight capital cities decreased 0.1%.
The capital city to decrease for the quarter were Perth, -1.0%, Adelaide -0.8%, Brisbane -0.3%, Melbourne -0.1%, Darwin -1.6%, and Hobart -0.1%.
Sydney prices were up 0.4% for the quarter, and Canberra’s prices were up 1.1% in the June quarter, the only two capital cities to record rises.
Westpac notes the official ABS measure of house prices was somewhat surprisingly more stable than private sector measures in the June quarter.
With prices down 1.9% for the year, it was a touch better than most private sector measures.
“The ABS index is not our preferred benchmark for prices or price inflation as it is prone to revision, only covers detached homes and often exaggerates price swings when there are compositional shifts,” Westpac says.
“Private sector measures suggest prices were a touch soggier in the June quarter with declines of between 0.6% quarter and 1.7% quarter.
“The variation across capital cities was consistent with private sector measures,” it notes.
Westpac notes that previous estimates had been revised.
The national index showed a 1.1% fall in the March quarter revised from the preliminary 1.7% fall published previously.
Monique Sasson Wakelin, managing director of property investment advisors Wakelin Property Advisory, says the index for the June quarter was further evidence that the dire predictions of a rout in property prices in 2011 had not occurred.
“Taking the capital cities together, property prices have fallen just 1.9 per cent over the last 12 months,” Sasson Wakelin says.
“After all the talk of ‘bubbles bursting’, a ‘collapse in prices’ and the ‘market in peril,’ we can see that nothing of the sort has happened. Rather, property prices have softened mildly in the last 12 months after a strong run in 2009 and early 2010.”
The latest ABS data reinforces evidence of a slightly softer market emanating from the commercial data providers, according to Sasson Wakelin.
“There is a great similarity between the results coming out ABS, RP Data, Residex and Australian Property Monitors. They are all reporting a small annual fall in national or capital cities prices of somewhere between 1 and 2%.”
 <table style="width: 470px;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="109" valign="top">
Provider
</td>
<td width="184" valign="top">
Quarterly change
</td>
<td width="304" valign="top">
12-month change
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="109" valign="top">
ABS
</td>
<td width="184" valign="top">
-0.1%
</td>
<td width="304" valign="top">
-1.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="109" valign="top">
RP Data Rismark
</td>
<td width="184" valign="top">
-0.90%
</td>
<td width="304" valign="top">
-2.00%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="109" valign="top">
Residex
</td>
<td width="184" valign="top">
-0.83%
</td>
<td width="304" valign="top">
-1.19%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="109" valign="top">
Australian Property Monitors
</td>
<td width="184" valign="top">
-0.80%
</td>
<td width="304" valign="top">
-2.00%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="109" valign="top">
Average of four reports
</td>
<td width="184" valign="top">
-0.66%
</td>
<td width="304" valign="top">
-1.77%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: Wakelin Property Advisory
Sasson Wakelin says she hopes the recent data might give the property debate a less shrill tone. “There have been a few commentators out there who have enjoyed their Chicken Little role, predicting that the sky is falling in on property. It is not and less sensationalism from these parties would be a more credible position.”
“I anticipate the market will continue to track sideways until at least the end of 2011. Unless a major hike in interest rates or a GFC Mark II materialises, I expect this stability will underpin confidence and possibly give prices a lift in 2012 off the back of strengthening demand. Smart investors and first home buyers should be seizing the current opportunity.”
</body></html>

House prices continue to fall in June quarter

<html><body>
Australia's dollar may be considered high compared with other countries, but that hasn't dampened overseas investors, who are clamouring to buy up our commercial property.
And this only serves to confirm Australia's "safe-haven status", being closely aligned with the Asian region.
During the 1970s, it was UK property companies that dominated the Australian commercial scene. Then Japan led the boom period during the 1980s. And it was southeast Asia that mopped up the aftermath, throughout the 1990s.
This time around, there is a spread of buyers — coming from the US, Asia and Europe. And Australia appears to be appealing to each of these investors for different reasons.
According to David Rees (head of JLL Research): "For US and European investors, Australia is an easy way into Asia-Pacific; for Asian investors it is an easy way out [of the region] into more transparent, well-regulated markets."
Principally, the buyers for Australian property are coming from the Asian region — cashed-up pension and property funds. However, there has also been strong interest by US and German investors as well.
Currently, these purchases represent about 10% to 15% of the market by value. And this is being seen as a long-term (rather than short-term) trend.
According to DTZ, in 2010 property investment within the Asia-Pacific region topped $158 billion for the first time — more than all of the investment undertaken throughout Europe.
Bottom Line: Even if some local investors are being overly cautious, overseas buyers realise the Australian commercial property market has now begun what will prove to be a strong upswing.
Chris Lang is a commercial property investor and gives keynote speeches and regular seminars on the best way to invest in commercial property. He maintains a blog, <a style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;" href="https://his-best.biz/" title="Chris Lang's blog" target="_blank">his-best.biz</a>, which he updates regularly about the best way to get the most out of your commercial property investment.
</body></html>

chrislang-EQKojcgJPV

Why overseas buyers love Australian commercial real estate

<html><body>
Three eastern Melbourne suburbs – Glen Iris, Armadale and Kew – achieved rental growth in excess of 10% in the last quarter, according to the latest quarterly market report compiled by RUN Property.
Kew registered the biggest increase in absolute terms, with rents rising by $52 a week over the 12 months from June 2010 to June 2011 to $567.
Glen Iris rents increased by $35 per week to $375, while Armadale rents increased by $37 per week to just under $400.
Inner-city rental increases were led by Glebe in Sydney’s inner west.
Tenants taking out new leases in June 2011 in Glebe are now paying on average $585 per week compared, with $523 a year ago, an increase of $62.
Despite the 11.8% increase in rental income generated over the year, Glebe failed to make onto the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/hotspots/of-15000-suburbs-21-rise-to-the-top-as-worth-a-look-for-investors/2011072750933" title="Editor's commentary" target="_blank">Top 100 investment hot spots lists</a> of either Australian Property Investor or Your Investment Property.
Neutral Bay on Sydney’s inner North shore recorded the biggest percentage increase of 12.1%, with rents increasing by $53 over the period from $440 to $493.
In total, eight Sydney suburbs recorded rental increase of above 10% for the year: Kogarah, Randwick, Potts Point, <a target="_blank" title="Redfern" href="/news">Redfern</a>, <a target="_blank" title="Surry Hills" href="/news">Surry Hills</a> and <a target="_blank" title="Chippendale" href="/news">Chippendale</a>.
<a target="_blank" title="Nundah" href="/news">Nundah </a>is Brisbane’s rental hotspot, achieving growth of 5.9% over the year to June 2011. Rents in the suburb, which is about eight kilometres north east of the CBD, have increased by $17 over the past year to just over $300 per week.
The rent increases relate only to new tenancy agreements.
RUN Property chief executive Rob Farmer says rising rents will boost the confidence of investors and encourage more to buy, especially during the property market’s quieter winter months.
“Rental growth has been strong and consistent over the past 18 months, so it surprises me that more investors are not taking advantage of the dip in sales activity to secure their next bargain investment,” he says. 
RUN Property manages 18,000 properties throughout Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.
<img src="/images/stories/victoriarents.jpg">


<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<img src="/images/stories/nswrents.jpg">
</body></html>

Rents rocketing in Melbourne's eastern suburbs

<html><body>
The failed bid by of a consortium of three hedge funds to instigate a management takeover at Charter Hall Office REIT is unlikely to deter further action, according to JP Morgan analyst Scott Jackson.
His comments follow the three US hedge funds - Orange Capital, Point Lobos Capital and Luxor Capital, which collectively hold 19.06% of Charter Hall units, announcing that they will continue with their co-operative arrangement until the end of October.
Last week, unit holder in the A-REIT voted overwhelmingly (62% opposed) against a proposed resolution by the consortium to sack the current Charter Hall Office REIT management and replace it with Moss Capital management and wind up the fund.
Despite the heavy defeat, Jackson says the action yielded benefits for the hedge funds included an increase in the unit price and a current review of corporate governance arrangements and fee structures.
A similar best practice review will also be undertaken of the Charter Hall Office REIT management team.
Since Orange Capital along with Point Lobos Capital and Luxor Capital began agitating for a management takeover the share price rose to a peak of $3.60, though it has fallen since then and is currently trading around the $3.34 mark. At the start of the year it was trading below $2.90.
The portfolio is fully price at $3.96, representing a discount on net tangible assets of about 17%, and has a market cap of $1.875 billion.
One analyst told the Australian Financial Review it would be preposterous to assume the A-REIT would not be trading where it is now were it not for the action of the hedge funds.
Andrew Parsons, managing director of Resolution Capital, writing in the Sydney Morning Herald said the shareholder revolt showed the difficulty of management of externally advised REITs to serve “two masters; “investors and the owners of the management entity”.
Parsons says a crisis of confidence still shrouds A-REITs in the wake of the Federal Court case concerning Centro - the risk of its collapse should have been apparent to experienced directors.
“On a positive note, with debt at reasonable levels and lower distributions payout ratios pointing to sustainable distributions per unit, A-REITs are becoming reliable providers of income and are capital self-sufficient. However many continue to trade at a discount to net tangible assets and their offshore REIT peers,” he says.
In tabling its resolution, Orange Capital had claimed that the board of Charter Hall Office management has an inherent conflict of interest and was incentivised to favour the interests of Charter Hall and not make decisions that are in the best interests of unit holders.
“From here it’s a matter of trying to guess what their next bet is – but hedge funds are typically not long-term holders of these assets,” Jackson told Property Observer.
“They won’t just sell out and go away. They are now a lot more determined to push up the share price to net tangible assets,” he says.
Possible option could see the hedge funds targeting large investors to buy up the assets in the fund and then get the fund wound up and realised at book value.
The office assets held by the fund are currently valued at $3.6 billion. However the fund is currently in the process of selling off its US office assets. Sale of these assets will reduce the fund to around $1.9 billion, geared to around 30%.
Prior to the takeover bid, the Charter Hall Office REIT, along with many other office REITS, was trading at a significant discount to its net tangible assets.
Mark Wist, senior asset consultant at Atchison Consultants, recently told Property Observer the Charter Hall vote could be seen as a “barometer for sentiment in the A-REIT space” indicating little appetite for change.
</body></html>

Hedge funds still aggressively hovering over A-REITs

<html><body>
The City of Fremantle could become a ghost town as unhappy retailers pack their wares and leave port city.
Council bosses made a dash to Melbourne recently in a bid to convince retailing giant Myer not to close its doors when its lease comes up for renewal.
Myer has been in Fremantle for 40 years, and although it is in a four-level building, only two floors are used for trading.
In recent months a national retailers including Betts shoes, Jeanswest, Jay Jays, Millers and Rockman’s have all close their shops. Local operators like the Creative Native gallery has downsized to smaller premises. Myer closing would be a major blow to the city, which has only four anchor tenants – Myer, Coles, Woolworth and Target – in place and 800 residents living in the CBD.
Rents range from about $1200 a square metre for prime retail space on High Street Mall to about $500 a square metres about 100 metres away.
“Fremantle is heading where everybody else in retails in going. The Woolstores shopping centre is struggling and so are arcades and strips shops outside the major tourist track,” says Colliers International leasing executive Anthony Unmack.
Fremantle attracts hoards of foreign and national tourists and day-trippers from Perth. It is the most visited city in Western Australia after Perth for international travellers. It has a well-used café strip on South Street, well-patronised markets, heritage-listed prison and many fine heritage buildings that continually entice thousands of visitors.
“There is a well-worn tourist trail along High Street, Adelaide Street and the café strip up to the market, which is humming to the hilt weekend. But the foot traffic doesn’t deviate away from those areas, and retail is suffering,” Unmack says.
While Fremantle mayor Brad Pettitt lead a five-man delegation to Melbourne to negotiate a package to keep Myer in town, the council is acutely aware of declining state of its shops and commissioned a study into the retail sector resulting in the just-released Retail Model Plan 2011.
“The vacancy rate of 7% in the city centre precinct must be maintained or reduced though skilful leasing and business development strategies,” the report said.
These strategies include encouraging a better mix of retail to encourage more fashion and home wares, developing a management system that runs a fund for marketing and communications, a listing of vacant premises and a desirable tenant hit list. It will have performance measures including what increases in business have occurred and what the pedestrian counts are.
Already the council has changed planning policy to permit mixed commercial and residential projects up to eight levels high in the run-down east end of town.
Andrew Eastic, Fremantle Council’s economic, marketing and development manager, agrees that the area is in decline.
“Myer’s 40-year lease is about to expire, and we are working on keeping them here. Bett’s have left after 119 years of trading in Fremantle, and there are a lot of empty shops. We acknowledge this and commissioned the Retail Model Plan. We will implement many of the excellent recommendations in order to bring Fremantle back to being a retailing centre,” Eastic says.
</body></html>

andreadixon-oif3j7eKne

Fears for Freo retail as Myer considers skipping town

<html><body>
Brisbane appears to be the frontrunner for the next location in the international Jamie’s Italian restaurant chain being set up by Britain's Jamie Oliver.
The Pacific Restaurant Group director Adam Heathcote confirmed a representative of Jamie's Italian International had been in Australia looking at its next site, including two strong prospects.
It is set to open Australia's first Jamie’s Italian on Sydney's Pitt Street (pictured) in October.
PRG holds a franchise for the brand in Australia and New Zealand.
Adam Heathcote confirmed to The Australian food writer John Lethlean that the organisation had a hot prospect.
The speculation was also that there could be another Sydney eatery, with a Melbourne location also mooted.
"As far as Melbourne's concerned, it's really a matter of identifying the right site more than anything else," Oliver told Lethlean.
Due to open its doors in October, Australia's first Jamie's Italian will seat 180 with a mezzanine floor that includes an antipasto bar.
Its head chef David Clarke, who graduated from PRG's Chophouse, is in Britain for further training.
Jamie Oliver has defied the European recession by cooking up a 170% rise in profits at his restaurant empire, according to the London Mirror newspaper.
Figures reveal his chain of 25 Italian eateries made £4.6 million in 2010 – up from £1.7 million the year before.
Jamie also raked in £8 million from books and TV shows – up 40% on 2009. It means he is now worth an estimated £100 million, the Mirror reports.
Oliver, the Channel 4 star, is planning to use some of the cash to open more restaurants across Britain including one opposite rival Gordon Ramsay near St Paul’s Cathedral in London as well as one in Dubai.
</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