Property developer One Living, backed by former Macquarie banker turned investment manager Chris Green’s investment firm, has unveiled plans to bring more institutional capital into housing to help address the national supply crisis.

The New York-based investor has focused his firm, GreenPoint Partners, on addressing the supply shortage hitting middle market housing in Australia.

It is backing the new One Living business to develop more than 1000 units along the eastern seaboard. The new firm is starting with a development on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with around 140 apartments planned. They are eyeing off more sites across the city.

With cost pressures rising in the industry, One Living’s model is to be a vertically integrated developer-builder, so it can respond directly to the housing gap by removing the cost inefficiencies embedded in traditional residential delivery.

“We are building a platform designed to operate at scale and starting in a market where there’s a clear need for quality, attainable housing,” One Living joint managing director Joseph Scuderi said.

“It’s that missing middle – it’s that attainable end of housing… that’s what most Australians invest into and what Australians can actually afford.”

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="798dfa93-4941-4db6-a696-31e9dc18e81c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.31.50%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=mKBqi5C_DmeiXS.AtJkcR8LQIxqCqmFi" />

GreenPoint Partners brings years of experience assembling and scaling real estate operating businesses across major markets. And Green sees a big opportunity in Australia.

“For its size, sophistication and importance to the community, Australia’s living sector has remained largely under-institutionalised, which represents significant opportunity,” Green said. “GreenPoint identified that gap, assembled the right team, and is backing One Living to build a platform that is aligned to market needs.”

Green said being a builder-developer would give the company the capacity and flexibility it required to deliver reasonably-priced homes.

“We want it to be at that attainable level; not super high end luxury but at that attainable level,” he said.

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74a5344a-4b26-4d4a-ada3-056b1220be77" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.32.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=vY8hXHO4reBMdO8ZXMWCNtGZJofUPQ3j" />

&nbsp;

One Living will undertake a component of affordable housing in its schemes, which it will own and operate, and it could also run build-to-rent on some sites.

Green praised local policy settings.

“The NSW government is being very supportive, strategic and pragmatic in terms of how do we generate more supply of housing,” he said. “We think it’s actually positive for development and the bit that’s been lacking at that attainable level is that it’s lots of relatively small private developers, whereas we want to create an institutional platform.”

One Living is also&nbsp;looking at high-density projects and could take on more institutional funding in the future.

“The way we will be able to achieve economies of scale is through size,” Green added.

Joel Robinson

One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition

It's been several years since there's been an opportunity to buy a brand new townhome in Melbourne's coastal suburb of Mordialloc. Even apartment developments in recent times have been few and far between in the area.

Local developer LDS Property identified the gap in new housing, securing a site on White Street, directly opposite&nbsp;Woodlands Golf Club Mordialloc. They've recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/wm-residences-mordialloc-102-white-street-mordialloc-vic-3195">WM Residences</a>, just 13 townhouses which they have already started building.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson, who is selling WM Residences, says the townhouses x that perfect middle ground be

"Mordialloc residents have had limited options to downsize within the suburb, often forcing them to look elsewhere despite long-standing ties to the area," Thompson says.

"With very little comparable new supply coming to market, projects like WM Residences are well placed, particularly as buyers look to capitalise on current conditions amid constrained supply."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6109]

The development, designed by regarded architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>,&nbsp;adopts a deliberately restrained architectural approach, focusing on simplicity, durability and liveability rather than overt design gestures.

The boutique scale is central to the offering. With only 13 three-bedroom residences, each home is configured to prioritise functional layouts and everyday use, supported by private terraces and secure two-car garages.

Ewert Leaf’s design response leans into a calm, neutral material palette. Interiors are defined by oak flooring, white walls and soft finishes, creating a consistent and understated backdrop. The approach avoids trend-driven detailing in favour of longevity, with an emphasis on natural light and spatial clarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6110]

Beyond aesthetics, the homes are designed to meet contemporary performance expectations. Each residence targets a minimum 6-star energy rating, incorporating double glazing, comprehensive insulation and all-electric Bosch appliances.

The project’s location supports a walkable coastal lifestyle, sitting within close proximity to Mordialloc’s foreshore, Main Street retail strip and the train station. Local cafés and dining venues, including Suburbia Deli and Hendriks Café, are within a short walk, reinforcing the area’s established neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6116]

While <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is often defined by its beach and pier, the project taps into other areas of day to day living, offering easy access to local food, casual dining and transport, rather than positioning itself purely as a lifestyle retreat.

WM Residences reflects a continued trend across Melbourne’s coastal suburbs towards smaller-scale, design-led townhouse developments, particularly on infill sites where proximity to amenity is already established.

With construction commenced prior to its market entry, the project aligns with a growing preference among buyers for developments with visible progress and defined delivery timeframes.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134646]

WM Residences fills gap in Mordialloc townhouse market

&nbsp;

Developer GURNER™ Group has revealed $1.65 billion in residential sales nationally across the 12 months to December 2025, driven largely by the continued momentum of its Docklands wellness-focused precinct, Elysium Fields.

The sales result was generated across seven projects in Victoria and New South Wales, headlined by Elysium Fields, GURNER™’s $2.75 billion mixed-use precinct planned for Harbour Esplanade in Docklands.

The project has recorded more than $500 million in sales across the first three towers, equating to around 580 apartments sold.

The first tower, Helios, has now sold out of its 240 private residences, with GURNER™ preparing to release a premium penthouse collection comprising 15 three-bedroom penthouses in coming weeks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370975]

Elysium Fields is being developed on the long-held 20,000 sqm Docklands site at 208-226 Harbour Esplanade, which had remained undeveloped for more than two decades prior to GURNER™ taking over the project around four years ago.

Construction has now commenced across four towers ranging between 18 and 30 storeys, with Hamilton Marino and Maxcon appointed as builders.

Once complete, the precinct is expected to comprise around 1,100 residences, alongside retail, hospitality and public realm uses integrated throughout the site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370981]

Designed by Fraser &amp; Partners in collaboration with GURNER™ Design House, the project has been positioned around the developer’s broader focus on wellness-led residential living.

“We don’t sell apartments. We create a true luxury lifestyle that simply doesn’t exist elsewhere in the market today,” Founder and Executive Chairman Tim Gurner said.

“To deliver that requires an extraordinary level of detail, coordination and discipline across multiple verticals, from design and hospitality through to wellness and service.”

“We’ve always believed that living extends far beyond the physical residence. It’s about how you feel the moment you arrive, how you live day-to-day, and the ecosystem that supports that.” 
[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370977]

The project’s design places a heavy focus on landscaping, wellness amenities and biophilic design principles.

Plans include around 3,700 sqm of landscaped gardens and open space throughout the precinct, alongside a retail and dining offering spanning approximately 5,000 sqm.

The broader public realm strategy centres around what GURNER™ describes as the “Path of Life”, an urban forest and landscaped pedestrian environment intended to connect the various buildings and wellness spaces across the precinct.

The apartments themselves will incorporate a range of wellness-focused inclusions, including purified air and water systems, circadian lighting, antimicrobial surfaces, and optional in-home wellness upgrades.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370980]

Gurner said the company’s experience through its Saint Haven wellness clubs had directly informed the residential offering now being incorporated into Elysium Fields.

“We’re seeing a clear global shift toward longevity, performance and proactive health,” Gurner said.

“Our role is to deliver that in a way that feels seamless, highly private and beautifully resolved within the environments we create.”

A large component of the wellness offering is planned through the resident amenity and health facilities proposed within the precinct.

That includes plans for bathing and recovery facilities spread throughout the towers, incorporating mineral pools, saunas, steam rooms, flotation therapy, red light therapy and wellness lounges.

The developer is also seeking approvals for what it describes as a “reverse ageing medical clinic” within the precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370978]

According to project information released by the group, the proposed facility would include cryotherapy, IV infusion therapy, infrared and dry saunas, PEMF beds, MRIs, DEXA scans, brain scans and blood analysis services.

Within the first tower, Helios, residents will also have access to a dedicated amenity offering known as the Sky Private Club.

The upper 15 levels of the building will include private lounges, dining spaces, rooftop amenities and optional private wellness studios integrated within residences.

The Helios tower itself comprises 260 apartments ranging between 60 sqm and 300 sqm, including a collection of penthouses.

That includes a planned two-storey penthouse spanning around 600 sqm with uninterrupted bay views.

The Elysium Fields precinct is being delivered in partnership with Digital Harbour Holdings, a consortium that includes the Liberman family, which controls the development rights across the Docklands site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370979]

The sales result comes as GURNER™ continues expanding its national development pipeline beyond Victoria.

“We have a strong pipeline across Australia and are now focused on scaling into key markets including New South Wales and Queensland, while continuing to build on our Melbourne base,” Gurner said.

“We currently have more than $3 billion in the market, growing to over $5 billion by October, and expect to materially outperform last year in the 2026 calendar year.”

The result also reflects the continued strength of the upper-end apartment market in Melbourne, particularly for owner-occupier-focused product with large-scale amenity and lifestyle offerings.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144441]

Record result anchored by the Group’s “utopian” Elysium Fields precinct – defying market headwinds in Docklands.

Elysium Fields drive Gurner to $1.65 billion in apartment sales over 2025

National Australia Bank (NAB) will fund <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera</a>, a $1 billion, 52-level luxury residential tower being developed by Central Equity in one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held coastal locations at Northcliffe.

The project, launched recently by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a>, one of Victoria’s largest private residential developers, comes at a time when construction funding for large residential developments has become increasingly competitive as lenders tighten exposure to the sector.

Multiplex has been appointed the builder, and construction is now underway.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365784]

Since its first project, Central Equity has delivered more than 85 residential developments with a combined end value exceeding $8 billion.

Palmera reflects Central Equity’s growing focus on the Gold Coast luxury apartment market and continues a relationship between Central Equity and NAB that dates back to the late 1980s, when the bank funded one of Melbourne’s earliest inner-city residential towers at a time when high-rise apartment living in the CBD was largely unproven.

“NAB’s funding of Central Equity’s $36 million CBD development in the late 1980’s to the financing of the billion-dollar tower today highlights the long-term relationship between the two organisations in delivering major residential projects” said Central Equity Founder and Chairman Eddie Kutner.

He said NAB’s early support was instrumental in helping establish the company’s development model.

“When we commenced our first residential tower in the late 1980s the concept of funding off-the-plan apartments was still largely untested in Australia,” Kutner said.

“NAB recognised the opportunity early and supported the project when others were uncertain. That relationship has now continued for more than 37 years across many developments.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Central Equity was established in 1987 when Melbourne’s CBD and Southbank precinct were still dominated by warehouses and commercial buildings. Fewer than 100 residents lived in Southbank at the time, and large-scale residential development in the inner city was not widely considered.

Recognising changing demographics and lifestyle preferences, the company began developing high-rise residential projects designed to bring permanent residents into the city centre.

Central Equity has provided accommodation for approximately 40,000 residents across Melbourne’s CBD and Southbank, while also incorporating supporting infrastructure including essential lifestyle facilities like retail spaces, childcare facilities and neighbourhood activity centres.

Central Equity has spent many years assembling the Palmera development site on the corner of Garfield Terrace and Frederick Street in Northcliffe, creating a supersite of around 3,300 sqm.

The developer said the Palmera apartment tower reflects its long-term view of the Gold Coast as a growing and increasingly diversified economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365768]

Supported by infrastructure including the light rail network, major road upgrades expanded education, hospital and medical facilities and continued expansion at the Gold Coast Airport with more international and domestic flights.

Positioned in the tightly held Northcliffe precinct, the 52-level tower will deliver 347 apartments, targeting buyers seeking a high-end coastal lifestyle, from downsizers to interstate investors.

Designed by Marchese Partners with interiors by DBI, Palmera has been conceived as a next-generation residential offering, featuring a collection of oversized apartments, with premium three-bedroom residences offering sweeping northern views stretching from Surfers Paradise through to Burleigh Heads.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

NAB funds $1 billion Surfers Paradise apartment development, Palmera

Two years after completing one of the newest developments in North Sydney, developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a> is turning its attention to the rapidly evolving St Leonards apartment market.

The developer, which completed AURA by Aqualand on North Sydney's Walker Street, has lodged plans for a 5,918 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/33-37-herbert-street-st-leonards-nsw-2065">33-37 Herbert Street, St Leonards,</a> seeking approval for a pair of residential towers rising above a shared podium opposite Royal North Shore Hospital.

The proposal forms part of the broader transformation underway across the St Leonards-Crows Nest precinct, where former industrial and commercial sites are increasingly being redeveloped into high-density mixed-use projects tied to major transport infrastructure.

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2cc428cf-fe70-4cac-9cd5-264ad53af62c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=otKSnHtbjAvAddOnovyXQMgcAwE6DMe1" />

According to the planning documents, the site sits “within the St Leonards–Crows Nest Strategic Centre, identified by the NSW Government as a key area for accommodating future jobs and housing across Sydney.”

The proposal has been designed by fjcstudio, formerly FJMT Studio, and is being progressed through the State Significant Development pathway due to its scale and affordable housing provision.

The scheme would comprise 413 apartments, including 46 affordable housing units, alongside retail and commercial uses fronting Herbert Street. The project would also include communal open space, landscaping, a swimming pool, gymnasium, children’s play areas and podium-level resident amenities.

Planning documents show the development would consist of a part-13, part-39 storey tower form positioned above a four-storey podium.

“The development comprises a unified podium that activates the street interface, and two setback towers to accommodate new housing supply while maintaining an appropriate human scale at ground level,” fjcstudio noted in its Design Report.

The northern and southern towers have been shaped to respond to the surrounding skyline while also limiting overshadowing impacts to nearby public open space, particularly Talus Reserve.

The design report said the differing tower heights were intended to “contribute to a varied skyline while responding to the surrounding built form context and solar access considerations.”

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36da62dc-ff9e-41f2-a7e3-7be38373751c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.45%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=Mo6Rp2r.XRLTzIfg_PEEpw8NepDH8UBs" />

The site sits directly opposite Royal North Shore Hospital and within walking distance of both St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

While the site itself sits just outside the formal Crows Nest Transport Oriented Development boundary, the planning documents repeatedly reference its alignment with the broader TOD objectives reshaping the Lower North Shore.

“The site is located adjacent to St Leonards Station and in close proximity to Crows Nest Metro which is within the Crows Nest Transit Orientated Development Accelerated Precinct which has been identified by the NSW Government to support housing delivery,” the Design Verification Statement noted.

According to fjcstudio, the project has been designed to respond to the broader transition occurring across St Leonards, where increasing residential density is being concentrated around transport infrastructure and employment hubs.

“The broader precinct is undergoing significant change, with a mix of existing mid-rise buildings and newer high-density developments,” the report stated.

“Recent and approved projects indicate a consistent shift toward taller built form, typically organised as tower-and-podium typologies with more active ground levels.”

The proposal includes close to 6,000 sqm of retail and commercial space across the ground floor and podium levels, designed to create a more activated street edge along Herbert Street.

Aqualand’s plans would also introduce a landscaped podium shared between the two towers, with communal open space in the form of a podium rooftop designed to support resident interaction and improve urban greening outcomes. The scheme would also introduce pocket parks at the northern and southern ends of the site, including a landscaped area at the corner of Herbert and Ella streets designed to improve pedestrian amenity and soften the streetscape.

&nbsp;

The proposal is being progressed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, which was introduced to accelerate housing supply across the state. The application was declared State Significant Development in April 2025 following an expression of interest process.

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="faf6d97d-2671-454f-b85a-fe1c6a7be608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=diVd28OBVr5.YV.7prrOz.uAanwwwm7a" />

St Leonards has been particularly active with new developments in recent weeks. Developer SP Setia’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-sp-setia-targets-st-leonards-skyline-with-40-storey-tod-tower">plans for a new 42-storey tower</a> recently went on exhibition through the same pathway, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">Stockland’s 52-storey tower proposal</a> was also recently unveiled.

Aside from the St Leonards project, which is expected to take around nine months to move through the approvals process ahead of a potential 2027 launch, Aqualand is also preparing to launch Boronia, a new apartment project in Roseville comprising around 111 apartments on Larkin Street.

The developer also has approvals in place for the next stage of the Barangaroo precinct, which will feature new residential, retail, hospitality and community uses, alongside a new metro entry across the five-hectare site.

More than 50 new retail destinations are planned for Central Barangaroo, alongside a 270-metre-long boulevard connecting Hickson Park to Nawi Cove. Together with Harbour Park, more than 50 per cent of the precinct will comprise public open space and parkland.

First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party

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

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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/1000plus.gif">
The estimated annual rent per square metre that food businesses have paid to lease space in the Melbourne CBD, with both deals negotiated by Ben Tremellen of Colliers. At 485 La Trobe Street, Tremellen negotiated a deal on behalf of landlord CLSA for café operator Café Saporo to lease 120 square metres of space that was previously foyer seating. At 206 Bourke Street, he negotiated the lease of 501 square metres on Level 1 to another food operator over two tenancies, and at the new SX building on Exhibition Street, a national food operator has taken up 100 square metres.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/800.gif">
The estimated gross annual rent per square metre (plus a market incentive) that specialist life insurer TAL will pay to lease new headquarters in the Sydney CBD. The group will lease nine mid-rise floors, over 10,500 square metres of space, at 363?George Street, just south of ­Martin Place, taking over space vacated by the Commonwealth Bank. The building is owned by ISPT and is formerly known as TOWER Australia. TAL will also take over the CBA’s prominent sky sign on the tower. The lease is for 12 years and was negotiated by Cadigal Office Leasing’s Mark Tindale and CBRE. Jason Wright of GJS Property advised TAL, which is relocating from Milsons Point across the harbour
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/17200.gif">
The gross annual rent that Gold Coast digital printing and sign writing company The Rocket Signtists will pay to lease an 86-square-metre warehouse/office space in a commercial complex at Helensvale on the Gold Coast. The company has taken up a tenancy at 3/178 Siganto Drive in a deal negotiated by Steve Macgregor of Ray White Commercial Southport. The Rocket Signtists have secured a three-year lease on the property. 
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/140.gif">
The net annual rent per square metre plus GST that national travel retail chain Newslink Pty Ltd will pay to lease a 1,368-square-metre office/warehouse in Rosebery. The 6-10 Durdans Avenue property features a modern industrial high-clearance warehouse, mezzanine offices, air-conditioning and an extra-wide container-height door.  The deal was negotiated by CBRE’s Mark Silva and Nathan Egan on behalf of Hamlove Pty Ltd. Newslink has taken a five-year lease. Durdans Avenue is located approximately six kilometres from the Sydney CBD and is situated close to the intersection of Botany and Gardeners roads.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/120d.gif">
The annual rent per square metre that architectural timber and composite panelling manufacturer Ultraflex Pty Ltd will pay to lease a 999.5-square-metre industrial unit in Silverwater’s Slough Business Park. Located at the corner of Holker Street and Silverwater Road, the unit comprises a high-bay warehouse and an office and is situated at the corner of Slough Business Park. The lease was negotiated by CBRE’s Michael O’Neill and Shaun Timbrell on behalf of Goodman Property Services (Australia) Pty Ltd. Ultraflex has taken a four-year lease. Silverwater is located approximately 20 kilometres west of the Sydney CBD.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/400d.gif">
How much Coda restaurant will pay to lease 350 square metres of space at Level 1, 96 Flinders Lane in the Melbourne CBD. The deal was negotiated by Ben Tremellen, Colliers International Manager for retail leasing, who said food and beverage sites were hot property in the CBD. Accessed via AC/DC Lane, the site would be home to a new venture from the team behind Coda, with details to be announced in the coming months.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Commercial leasing: Watch this space

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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/490.gif">
The amount a Melbourne-based IT software company will pay per square metre (gross) to lease a whole office floor in a strata office building in a deal negotiated by Savills manager of office leasing, Mark Bolis. The lease covers a 434-square-metre space on level 8 in the 171 La Trobe Street building. Bolis says the 10-level building had been extremely tightly held since it was subdivided into separate floors and sold individually in the early 2000s, with only one floor changing hands since 2005, demonstrating the tightly held nature of the building.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/110.gif">
The annual rent per square metre that cake manufacturer Bartletts will pay to lease a 1,564-square-metre office/warehouse in Rydalmere, 21 kilometres north-west of the Sydney CBD. The 6 Pike Street property was recently refurbished and features a high-bay warehouse, large roller door and exclusive yard. The lease was negotiated by CBRE’s Shaun Timbrell and Michael O’Neill on behalf of construction firm Direct Developments. Bartletts has taken a three-year lease.  
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/520.gif">
The asking price per square metre (gross) for 916 square metres of office space covering level three at 26 College Street, a B-grade office building comprising of six levels of office accommodation on the fringe of the Sydney CBD. The office block adjoins to the Pullman Hotel. It is located on the eastern alignment of College Street, opposite Hyde Park, with Francis and Oxford Streets being the cross streets. Museum Station and Elizabeth Street Bus Terminal are both within close proximity. The space is being marketed by Christian Minards from Ray White Commercial.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/185k.gif">
The annual rental income (plus GST and outgoings) on a new top floor office lease in Hawthorn. Level six at 523 Burwood Road has been leased by Drive Projects from June this year for five years. The floor will go to auction on June 20 and is expected to sell for more $2.45 million though a campaign led by Colliers International executives Hamish Burgess and Ben Baines. The 410-square-metre strata office includes a 38-square-metre terrace and 12 secure car parks.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/180k.gif">
The estimated net rent per annum that accounting firm KPMG will pay to lease 500 square metres of commercial space on the Sunshine Coast, in a deal estimated to be worth $180,000 a year net. The firm has signed a seven-year lease plus two five-year renewal options. KPMG is leasing space at the Emporio mixed-use development at 2?Emporio Place, Maroochydore. The lease was negotiated by Tony Justo of Colliers International in conjunction with Justin Welsh of Savills on behalf of Reed Property Group.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/704.gif">
How much Two Skinny Men, a specialist digital agency, will pay per square metre net to lease a 62-square-metre office at 56 Bowman Street in Pyrmont from a private investor. A lease term of two years plus a one-year renewal option was secured by Michael Vranic of City Commercial Property.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/95.gif">
The net rent per square metre that Kerry Logistics will pay to lease 5,800 square metres of warehouse space at Stockland’s Yennora Distribution Centre in Western Sydney. The lease was negotiated by Olivia Skinner and Fallon Leek from Billicorp and Angus Grier from GJS Property.
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/110.gif">
The going rent per square metre for industrial units in Nerang on the Gold Coast, where a property previously occupied by the now-defunct Glenfords Discount Tool Centre is vacant and being marketed for lease by Josh Wright of Colliers International. The 387-square-metre industrial unit is located at 1/12 Lawrence Drive within the Jupiter Plaza complex. According to Wright, the property would be perfect for businesses looking for warehousing space that would benefit from the exposure and quick access on to the nearby M1 Pacific Motorway.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/400.gif">
The annual rent per square metre business consulting firm, RXP Services will pay to lease 281 square metres of office on Collins Street in the Melbourne CBD. The property at 406 Collins Street has been leased on a three-year lease. The building has recently undergone a major refurbishment. The lease was negotiated by Josh Langdon of Colliers International.
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<img src="/images/stories/500plus.gif">
An estimate of how much well-known Melbourne restaurateur and chef Marco Santucci will pay per square metre per year to lease a 400-square-metre restaurant space on the ground floor of a New York-style warehouse building at 31 Flinders Lane between Spring and Exhibition streets opposite Collins Place in the Melbourne CBD.  The deal was brokered by Savills Australia retail director Michael Di Carlo alongside colleague Jeremy Marmur.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/100dollars.gif">
Roughly how much a Melbourne electrical contractor will pay per square metre per annum net to rent a 700-square-metre office and warehouse building at 13 Ceylon Street industrial facility at Nunawading in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. The deal was negotiated by Savills Australia Adrian Smith. The property is located near the intersection of Whitehorse and Springvale roads, providing links with Melbourne’s freeway system via the Eastern Freeway.  The lessor was a local private investor.
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<img src="/images/stories/1300.gif">
The gross rent per square per annum being sought for a 187-square-metre office space on level 40 within in the 64-level Governor Phillip Tower in the Sydney CBD. The sublease is available until August 2014, with space being offered by Jeremy Piggin of Ray White Commercial Office Leasing. Governor Phillip Tower is located just two blocks from Circular Quay, encompassing an entire CBD block bounded by Bridge, Phillip, Bent and Young streets.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/475.gif">
The gross rent per square metre per annum that mining risk insurance consultants Hawcroft will pay to lease a 110-square-metre office at 275 Alfred Street in North Sydney from Fivex Commercial Property. The lease term is three years, with the deal negotiated by Laura Hilder from Aspace Estate Agents.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/400.gif">
The gross rent per square metre per annum that travel group the Grand Circle Corporation will pay to lease a 150-square-metre office at 80 William Street in Darlinghurst in Sydney from Terrace Tower Group. The office has been leased for four years plus a four-year renewal option. The deal was negotiated by Michael Vranic from City Commercial Property.
 
 
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/128800.gif">
The gross annual rent that Redback Conferencing will pay to lease 322 square metres of office space at Level 3, 285 George Street in the Sydney CBD. Rowan Humphreys of Tenant Representation Services negotiated the lease on behalf of Redback Conferencing while Dan Walker of Colliers International represented the vendor Kapau Holdings Pty Ltd. The lease period is two years commencing July 1 with a renewal option period of one year. 
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/90k.gif">
The estimated gross annual rent that business solutions provider Lodestone Management Consultants will pay to lease office space in the Canberra CBD. The 248-square-metre tenancy on the third floor at 8-10 Hobart Place, Civic, was secured following negotiations by Aaron Green of Ray White Commercial Canberra. Lodestone has taken out a three-year lease on the premises.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/150dollars.gif">
The net annual rent per square metre plus GST that fire door manufacturer Fire Systems Engineering will pay to lease a 1,153-square-metre industrial unit in Alexandria in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The 1/6 Huntley Street site comprises four units, each of which feature high-clearance warehouses, street frontage, air-conditioned office space and off-street parking. The lease was negotiated by CBRE’s Mark Silva on behalf of Tangala Pty Ltd. Fire Systems Engineering has taken a five-year lease.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/120.gif">
The net per square metre annual rent that Visy Boxes and More, a subsidiary of Visy Industries, will pay to lease a 1,918-square-metre office/warehouse in Brisbane’s TradeCoast area. The 2/142-150 Benjamin Place, Lytton property benefits from a strategic location on the Port of Brisbane Motorway. The lease was negotiated by CBRE’s Jamie Nason and John Slater on behalf of Opus Capital. Visy has taken a three-year lease with a three-year option.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/113058.gif">
The initial gross annual rent that health and wellbeing group Results Laser Clinic will pay to lease new premises in Sydney's CBD. Results Laser Clinic, which has 12 locations throughout NSW, Queensland and Victoria, has leased Level 1, 280 George Street, Sydney, via Ray White Commercial office leasing director John Skufris.  “The new location offers an area of 171.3 square metres with natural light on multiple sides and excellent exposure over George Street with Wynyard Station, the Met Centre and Australia Square still all just moments away," says Skufris. 280 George Street is a 13-storey office building Results Laser Clinic has committed to a five-year lease having relocated from 312 George Street.
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/285.gif">
The gross face rent that Planet Innovation will pay to lease a 1,000-square-metre office building at 81-89 Cotham Road, Kew in Melbourne. The five-year deal was negotiated by Michael Darvell from Colliers International. The property is owned by a private investor and was previously tenanted by Roche Pharmaceuticals. Planet Innovation has relocated from Botanicca Business Park in Richmond.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/55k.gif">
The net annual rent that construction firm and earth moving specialists Hawkins Civil Constructions Pty Ltd will pay for an industrial property at Loganholme, south of Brisbane.  The company has taken up a tenancy at 51-53 Cairns Street, Loganholme, in a deal negotiated by Karen Seeto of Ray White Commercial Burleigh. Seeto says the site measures around 1.1 hectares with around 5,800 square metres of hardstand area. Hawkins has secured a two-year lease with a two-year renewal option.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/725.gif">
The annual rent per square metre that consulting firm Pacific Strategy Partners will pay to lease level 24, 1 Alfred Street in the Sydney CBD on a 12-month deal. The 400-square-metre suite with existing fit-out in situ and harbour views was negotiated by Ray White Commercial’s Jeremy Piggin. The building, known as Goldfields, is owned by property group Valad and is one of Circular Quay’s oldest office buildings with redevelopment approved.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/20800.gif">
The annual rent per annum, exclusive of GST, that an Italian restaurant will pay to lease a historical building in Dubbo. The 232-square-metre building with a 63-square-metre mezzanine at 21 Depot Road, Dubbo, was secured following negotiations by Rod Crowfoot of Ray White Commercial Dubbo. Crowfoot says the Depot Road property was previously a café, gallery and cultural centre. The restaurant has secured a two-year lease.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/400.gif">
The initial annual rent per square metre that online lead generation company TellUs will pay to lease 327 square metres of office space at level 2, 1 Alfred Street (Goldfields House), Sydney. The Dutch group, located throughout Europe and North America, was in serviced offices at Darling Park. Its 12-month lease offered workstations, three sides of natural light and with views towards the harbour bridge.
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/400.gif">
The net rent (in the low $400s) per square metre that industry superannuation fund CareSuper will pay to lease a whole floor at 31 Queen Street in the Melbourne CBD. Josh Langdon from Colliers negotiated a new seven-year lease to CareSuper for 964 square metres on kevel 18 of the building owned by Challenger Diversified Property Group (CDI). Langdon says CDI had embarked on an impressive external makeover of the building since taking ownership 12 months ago. This has taken 31 Queen Street from a 15% vacancy to around 5%.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/150k.gif">
The estimated annual rent that BDA Architecture will pay to continue to lease its Broadbeach office in The Wave in a three-year lease extension. Colliers International Ed Howard negotiated the deal, and BDA Architecture committed to a 322-square-metre space in the building at 89 Surfers Parade. The Wave is a 34-floor mixed-use development in the heart of Broadbeach, with retail amenity on the ground floor, office over the first two floors and resort accommodation above. The office component of the Wave is now more than 65% leased, with about 1,400 square metres of office space remaining available. Apart from BDA Architecture, other office tenants in The Wave include ANZ, Westpac and AIDA.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/280.gif">
The estimated net rent per square metre that Wesfarmers’ Target department store chain will pay to lease 4,462 square metres of office space at 324 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Target will lease five floors of the eight-storey glass-fronted building. The building is owned by Overland Properties. Malcolm Hunter from DTZ negotiated on behalf of Overland Properties, and Target was represented by CBRE’s Grant Tinker.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/125.gif">
The net rent per square metre that Business Print Australia will pay on a six-year lease for a warehouse in Botany, Sydney. The company has leased 4,655 square metres of space at units 4 &amp; 4C, 1A Hale Street. It will use the industrial property for printing and storage. The lease was negotiated by Michael Crombie of Colliers International on behalf of GTA Industrial Custodian Pty Ltd.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/2010.gif">
The gross rent per square metre that Flight Centre Limited will pay to lease a 97-square-metre retail shop at 75 King Street in the Sydney CBD from Samadames Pty Ltd. The lease term is seven years plus a five-year renewal option. The lease agreement was negotiated by Scott Harris, from Property Partnership Australia.
 Negotiated a lease recently? <a target="_self" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">Let us know</a> and we’ll include it in our weekly wrap.
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<img src="/images/stories/3500.gif">
The estimated rent per square metre that fashion retailer Marcs will pay to lease its flagship store in the Melbourne CBD retail core. The shop at 256 Collins Street comprises 430 square metres of retail space. Marcs has committed to a 10-year lease in a deal negotiated by CBRE’s Max Cookes and Zelman Ainsworth. “The deal illustrates that quality retail properties in prime locations are still achieving strong results,” says Cookes, who added that the incentive was less than 8%, with the rent in line with the market. Ainsworth says the Marcs store adds to the increasing number of major retailers that had secured a presence within this “exclusive pocket of Collins Street”. Other retail leasing deals concluded during the past 18 months include: Telstra at 220 Collins Street, Tiffany&amp; Co. at 367 Collins Street, Nespresso at 247 Collins Street, Gânache Chocolate at 245 Collins Street, Thomas Pink at 357 Collins Street and Vapiano at 357 Collins Street.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/215k.gif">
The net rent per annum that Adelaide mattress retailer Elite Bedding will pay to lease a 1,500-square-metre office/showroom/warehouse in Edwardstown, six kilometres south-west of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sydney_central_business_district" title="Sydney central business district">Adelaide </a>CBD. The 966-970 South Road property comprises a corner site with prominent street frontage. Elite Bedding has committed to a five-year lease with two five-year options. The deal was negotiated by CBRE’s David Ludlow and Dallas Sears on behalf of a private investor. Ludlow said the property’s multiple facilities were key deciding factors in the lease.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/691.gif">
The amount professional body care treatments provider Brazilian Sunset will pay per square metre to lease a 123-square-metre ground floor shop at 410 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. The five-year lease with a five-year renewal option, which commenced on May 1, was negotiated by Colliers International’s Mike Crittenden. “Due to the refurbishment of The Strand Arcade, at the corner of Lonsdale and Elizabeth Streets in the Melbourne CBD, there has been an increase in demand from sitting tenants looking to relocate within the immediate area,” he says. Crittenden says approximately 158 square metres of office space remains in this building.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/50k.gif">
The estimated annual rent that building and plumbing supplies company the Building Connection will pay to lease new headquarters in the Gold Coast industrial precinct of Molendinar. The company, which specialises in supplying builders and plumbers for residential and commercial projects, has leased 2/3 Expansion Street, Molendinar, in a deal negotiated by Steve Macgregor of Ray White Industrial Gold Coast. The 423-square-metre property includes an office/mezzanine area, with the warehouse component offering a rear roller door and multiple three-phase power outlets. The company has signed a three-year lease with a three-year renewal option.
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/600.gif">
The gross annual rent sought for office space at Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art at 140 George Street, Circular Quay. The lease is for 630 square metres on level four of the recently refurbished sandstone building, which features the art gallery in the levels below. The space is being leased by Jeremy Piggin and Anthony Harry from Ray White Commercial.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/575.gif">
The net annual rent per square metre that Australian hematite iron ore producer Mount Gibson Iron will pay to lease a 1,440-square-metre office in West Perth. Located at 2 Kings Park Road, the level one office was the last floor to be leased after Western Areas and Kiewit secured space following a major building refurbishment. The lease was negotiated by CBRE’s Luke Bray. Mount Gibson Iron has taken a six year lease.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/840.gif">
How much a vegan restaurant will pay per square metre gross to lease an 87-square-metre shop at 157 Broadway in Ultimo in Sydney. The lease was negotiated by Kenneth Ng from Ray White City South on behalf of Tourvas. The lease term is two years plus a five-year renewal option.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/69point50.gif">
The gross rent per square metre per annum that Williams Pressing and Warehousing will pay to lease a 15,613-square-metre warehouse at 67-73 Gow Street in Padstow in Bankstown, south-west of Sydney. The lease was negotiated by Jon Orsborn, Alex Jaafar, Gavin Bishop, Colliers International on behalf of Wix Pty Ltd . It is for three years plus a three-year renewal option.
 
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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/130k.gif">
The advertised annual rent for car yard/display yard in Braybrook in West Melbourne has recently been leased. The car yard measures 1,652 square metres with secure fencing and is a corner location. The premises was leased by Mario Ruberto from MCG Commercial Property Group. The car yard is situated at 252 Ballarat Road.</body></html>

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No matter what the greater market is doing, there are always property gems to be found.

It is important to understand that a current ‘gem’ is just that, current, and therefore the opportunity to pick it up cheaply and then maximise returns has possibly passed.
Investors need to fossick for properties within locations that are set to grow just before they become ‘gems’ in order to make the most out of any investment.
When there’s a market rebound in price growth, it typically starts within the capital city's prime suburbs. And within cheaper suburbs when it comes to rental growth. And when these suburbs – in various price belts – become too expensive for many people to afford to buy or rent, they go looking to neighbouring areas that are more affordable, and then the ripple effect is underway.
Investors can make money is any of the locations so long as their entry price is ahead of the rising market.
Tip 51 will come next week.
 
 
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