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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Expressions of interest for a development site opportunity in the heart of Brisbane’s north closed without an immediate sale.    The Kedron properties at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=K0hqbDJ2aytYTTVuOThoM2txbyttK3V3dEJhVE9BcEQ5K3JPRkFqQzNQZVBaSkxOa05aQk9jK3I1bkRoWkR4MkFXcDdqNDd3cHUrYmg4VERRelZyRS9xWHIwbElKay9MWkJoUlhvSENJSHdEdTBjcjBGUm1PaEpzSU1sR1N2R3FRZnZpNWI1WGYreWsxeExwd3I2aVgrVjZ0Z04xQkhReW5MaG1IZlFSKzhBUHhpb0ZnY0JaeU1TY0JMaDZDcjlq&amp;rh=ff0068835071c240aa7c8d491c47b4000d9b0331" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">531-537 Gympie Road,</a> 21 Kate Street and 20-26 Boothby Street came with a substantial 16,724sqm site area.
It also offers a 59m frontage to Gympie Road and a 42m entry to Boothby Street.   The property was being marketed by Ray White Commercial QLD Managing Director and Partner Michael McCullagh and Manager – Brokerage Services Andrew Doyle.   “This really is a fantastic asset that provides an irreplaceable blank canvas development opportunity with a holding income of $413,630 per annum,” Mr McCullagh said.
“Commanding a huge site area in this established and growing suburb, this site lends itself to the design and delivery of a range of development options.   “Long-standing tenants provide significant holding income, some of which have a strong trading history for decades.   The property is also in close proximity to existing retailers such as JB Hi-Fi, Pet Barn, Chemist Warehouse, Coles, Aldi and several car dealerships.   “Gympie Road is a major arterial route which connects the Brisbane CBD to the city’s northern suburbs and services over 23 million cars per annum,” Mr Doyle said.
“As of 2019, the immediate 3km catchment area surrounding the subject properties recorded an estimated resident population of 77,334 people, with an average annual growth rate of 1.92 per cent from 2016-2019.    “The broader catchment area is relatively affluent overall, with average annual income per household exceeding $114,000, or around $15,000 higher than the Queensland average.”   Expressions of interest closed on September 24. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

EOIs close on rare Gympie development site opportunity without immediate sale

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Ray White Commercial Queensland settled around $8.5 million of property deals in the Banyo and Northgate precinct alone in July, over two transactions.    The first transaction at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=Zlc4M0lHejNQTjdwL2dwcFRNcXQ3bkc5ZXBkcFAxV1hkazdXWjhZdnlhTkl2R2hyd2drTTZURldCaWdUNVZzRnJIelJWMEsxUzcrRWZydlZXNGFpWGlPSmlZaG5Sb2JkcHJaYjJFQWIyQlFJdXc2UFZpK3pmOEtqYXR4VHdvRnBGYTZWM095ZFdSRjlGUnB6WGFVQ01tcm1NQlFzRmdoQ3Z6eWg3MDUwN3hGQUtKY2hKTURLc21QNDNRYnJrSFM5&amp;rh=ff00685a69c68ddc0d8fcc52934089b2a5fcb7d1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lot 2/71 Raubers Road</a> (above) in Northgate traded for an undisclosed amount, but industry sources revealed the price was in the mid three-million-dollar range.    The offering was a semi-modern industrial facility of 2,294sqm.
The site was purchased by a local owner occupier whose business was going exceptionally well in current market conditions.    The second transaction at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=Zlc4M0lHejNQTjdwL2dwcFRNcXQ3bkc5ZXBkcFAxV1hkazdXWjhZdnlhTkl2R2hyd2drTTZURldCaWdUNVZzRnJIelJWMEsxUzcrRWZydlZXNGFpWGlPSmlZaG5Sb2JkcHJaYjJFQWIyQlFJdXc2UFZpK3pmOEtqYXR4VHdvRnBtRGdSRkZYaDErUklUM2ZkR05yOUlORW1KWHpQTEVja01hRVRESnJYNWdqWXNHdGN6eDZtVTVHYzNTZ3RNdXFn&amp;rh=ff00685a69c68ddc0d8fcc52934089b2a5fcb7d1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lot 6/459 Tufnell Road</a> (below) in Banyo settled for $5,300,000. 
The property was sold via a sale and lease-back process.
<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/2020/9/21/Lot%206%20459%20Tufnell%20Road%20Banyo%20-%20%2011%20v2.jpg" alt="">
Moto National Accessories committed to a five plus five-year term, at a commencing rental of $328,125. 
The price achieved equated to an initial yield of 6.19 per cent, or $2,309 per sqm on GFA.   “We’re not surprised by the interest in the Banyo and Northgate precinct. Trains, planes and automobiles drive industrial transactions, and this pocket ticks all those boxes,” said Ray White Commercial Queensland Manager Andrew Doyle.   “Further to the sales we’ve settled, we’ve observed another $22,000,000 in transactions through the Northgate and Banyo precinct since COVID-19. This definitely highlights the comfort level buyers have in this area,” said Ray White Commercial Queensland Manager Aaron Aleckson.   “In a market like the current one, it’s important as an agent to get a sense of what buyers want,” said Ray White Commercial Queensland Director – Brokerage services Paul Anderson.
“We clearly have that read now, and we’re very pleased to be offering a new opportunity in the Banyo and Northgate precinct – which is a brand-new industrial asset leased to Domayne”.    Ray White Commercial Queensland is offering <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=Zlc4M0lHejNQTjdwL2dwcFRNcXQ3bkc5ZXBkcFAxV1hkazdXWjhZdnlhTkl2R2hyd2drTTZURldCaWdUNVZzRnJIelJWMEsxUzcrRWZydlZXNGFpWGlPSmlZaG5Sb2JkQUdvcXBWT3p0aThVa3RCVWZNbUZzQ3ltb29GRnZRVGtFQzRteU5tbm01UDhoQUY1ODdIdWgrM0ZxUjUwL1N5UnpncXY1bVQ3bUxnODNaNE9rK2Z3WkkyQUZPSWJnbVZXU0dzUWdwQTlFaE09&amp;rh=ff00685a69c68ddc0d8fcc52934089b2a5fcb7d1" target="_blank" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lots 16 and 17/62 Crockford Street</a> (above) in Northgate for sale via auction on October 16.   The property is a brand-new facility of 2,358sqm on a 4,000sqm allotment.
<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/2020/9/21/LOTS%2016%20NORTHGATE.jpg" alt="">
It has been leased to Domayne at an annual rental of $330,000 per annum net, with a primary lease term expiry of April 2027.   
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Banyo and Northgate, Queensland see $8.5 million of property deals

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A long-waited development site in the centre of Maryborough has hit the market via expressions of interest.    The substantial 6.8ha land area with dual street frontage is centrally located at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=WDlEeE43WHk4cDU3VXV3SEx6K1g3a0FGK28vMDZVUHBNTmdGelRVTnpGTkhrYzNZMlp2R3gzbm5MZW1BWXhEUmpqQlJQODk3NmE0RVBLQ1J6c2NxUThUM1BUZlV2S3lteXQ1d3ZYN0NZT3VJY2NZYklENWJuNVVmR09hR1hITmo3VVRBZDFMU0l6UCtON3VZenFBdVJmbGY2eE9aRlQxbHhuZ0Z3S0FEWjRlMmI1eVVGb1c3M1NONndFL3JqdVdq&amp;rh=ff006881b6ec913c13708079ee4bb2af5d5ee0de" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lot 183, Neptune Street</a>.
It benefits from being level with all essential infrastructure directly adjacent.   The property is being marketed by Ray White Special Projects Qld Directors Mark Creevey and Tony Williams, along with Ray White Maryborough Principal Guy Meredith. “The site is designated Community Facilities and Community Hub zone and the existing building is approved for a Community Care Facility,” Mr Creevey said.   “Land parcels of this size with any sort of approval already in place are highly sought-after throughout Queensland and we’re anticipating a lot of interest in this one.”   “A real gem of this site is the potential for alternate residential development (STCA) along with concept plans for major health-based mixed-use development,” Mr Williams said. The property is just 500m to Maryborough Hospital and is opposite PresCare Yaralla Aged Care Facility and is in close proximity to a vast array of facilities and amenities.”   “The parcel of land is minutes from the CBD in a well-regarded part of town and holds enormous potential for both mixed use and/or residential development (STCA),” Mr Meredith said. “Maryborough is just three hours north of Brisbane with a strong manufacturing hub and is the gateway to The Great Sandy Straits and Fraser Island.” 
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Maryborough development site hits the market 

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Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has advised Qube Holdings Limited, Australia’s largest integrated provider of import and export logistics, on the sale of its Minto industrial site to Charter Hall. 
The sale of the 30.6-hectare Minto site was first announced in July 2020 and, with approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board, settled on 15 September for around $207 million, reflecting an initial yield of 4.76 per cent. 
The site is located close to the South Sydney Freight Line, the M5, M7 and Hume Highway in NSW.
It will now form part of Charter Hall’s expanded industrial and logistics property portfolio, the $5.2 billion Prime Industrial Fund.
The site is fully leased to four automotive logistics tenants and is currently used for car import, storage and distribution, and has the potential to be developed as an intermodal rail terminal. 
Real estate partner Deanne Ogilvie acted on all aspects of the sale, including undertaking vendor due diligence, preparing and negotiating the contracts, and attending to exchange and settlement of the sale. 
“We have been acting for Qube for more than a decade and in regards to the Minto site for more than six years and are pleased to have assisted Qube on this sale.
"The site is a strategic property asset – well located, fully leased and with the potential to be developed as an intermodal rail terminal – and is a key addition to Charter Hall’s growing portfolio," Deanne said.  
In addition to the Minto site, Qube Holdings Limited is assessing funding and ownership options for one its most significant real estate sites, the Moorebank Logistics Park. 
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Minto industrial estate of Qube Holdings Limited sold for $207 million

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Premium investment properties remain highly sought after by private, high-net-worth investors, according to Colliers International.
Paul McGlynn and Harry Bui of Colliers have sold McDonald’s Bella Vista (pictured above) to a private Asian investor from Melbourne for $6.65 million on a net yield of 3.1%. 
The acquisition was for a 2,885sqm long-term ground lease. 
McDonalds Australia constructed a brand-new single level restaurant with dine-in and drive-thru take-away facility, open to the public since May 2019.
Mr McGlynn and Mr Bui will be also taking the adjoining Shell Service Centre Bella Vista (pictured below) to the market for sale by international expressions of interest.  
<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/2020/9/21/Norwest_060820_36%20Large.jpg" alt="">
Both properties are located in a gateway position at the entrance of Norwest Business Park within the north-west growth corridor in Sydney’s Hills District.  
On a 2,813sqm site, this new Shell service station with an annexed café is anticipated to receive high levels of interest from both local and international investors.
The opportunity benefits from its premium location in Norwest Business Park, long WALE profile of 10 years by income, strong annual rental escalation, and head lease to Viva Energy Australia with a fully leased net passing income of around $604,544 per annum. 
“Premium investment properties with long leases such as a freestanding petrol station leased to Viva Energy, 7-Eleven, Caltex, BP or freestanding fast food sites like McDonald’s are currently very sought-after,” said Harry Bui, National Director, Investment Services at Colliers International. 
“Private high net worth investors are the most common buyer profile within the sub-$20million investment market, while both property syndicates and consortiums showed increased interest towards premium investment assets with longer WALE’s and company leases to national blue-chip corporate tenants.” 
There have been several significant national portfolio sales for premium investments in the past year.
This includes; 33 7-Eleven petrol stations, which sold for $156 million in October 2019 and February 2020 with an average yield of 4.76% and; 25 Caltex petrol stations sold for $133 million in November 2019 with strong underlying land values for future development.  
Charter Hall also took a 49% stake in a portfolio of 225 BP petrol stations in Australia, worth $1.7 billion with a weighted average lease expiry (WALE) of 20 years which was the biggest deal of 2019. 
Paul McGlynn, National Director, Industrial at Colliers International said that the Norwest area where both properties are located will benefit from major State and Federal Government projects.
“Norwest is in the suburb of Bella Vista which is surrounded by major State and Federal Government infrastructure projects, specifically the North-West Metro which opened in May 2019, North-Connex due to open next month, the re-development of Parramatta CBD (11 kilometres South) and establishment of the new second Western Sydney Airport (43 kilometres West).”
“These infrastructure projects coupled with substantial increases in new residential dwellings and population growth locally will rejuvenate and promote Western Sydney, helping the area to become a major economic powerhouse.”
Colliers International will also be bringing a brand-new, flagship BP in Tighes Hill, Newcastle to market. 
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Two Norwest properties in Sydney indicate premium investments remain sought after

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A development site, currently occupied by the Coorparoo RSL in the affluent Brisbane suburb hits the market.   The property at 20 Harries Road commands a 2,693sq m corner site with 105m street frontage, and is opposite Coorparoo Square.
The $252 million mixed-use development has recently completed by heavyweights Fraser Property Australia and Honeycombes Property Group.   The property is being marketed for sale by Ray White Commercial Qld Director and Head of Investment Sales Tom Barr and Ray White Special Projects Qld Executive Director Matthew Fritzsche.
“The site and location offer fantastic development potential with a code accessible height up to 16 storeys, with upper levels to incorporate panoramic city views,” Mr Barr said.
<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/2020/9/21/Aerial_2.jpg" alt="">   “Potential development opportunities include vertical retirement living/aged care, residential apartments, build-to-rent, student accommodation, medical, commercial, and retail (STCA).”   “A real drawcard is the potential for a short-term leaseback from the Coorparoo RSL post settlement, which would provide some additional holding income for the purchaser (likely a developer), whilst finalising their development scheme, obtaining town planning approval, and de-risking the project.  
"This would also give the Coorparoo RSL time to acquire another property and get their new facility ready for occupation.”
<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/2020/9/21/Image_2_1.jpg" alt="">   “The upcoming Eastern Transitway will also really appeal with the project delivering targeted bus priority measures to improve safety, reliability and capacity along Old Cleveland Road, from Coorparoo to Carindale,” Mr Fritzsche said.   The popular suburb is only 3km to the Brisbane CBD and is within walking distance to public transport.
 Expressions of interest close on October 14. 
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Coorparoo development site hits the market

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A private investor has secured a prime retail investment, leased long-term to national retailer Cheap as Chips for $3.72 million on a yield of 7.4 per cent. 
Located in the heart of Colac Activity Centre at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/173-183-murray-street-colac-vic-3250-2016401443">173-183 Murray Street,</a> Cheap as Chips Colac is a well-established and proven ‘essentials’ retailer.
Its network of 42 stores nationally across SA, NSW and VIC has remained open and trading throughout Victoria’s Stage 4 restrictions.
Occupying a large site area of 2,460sqm with a gross floor area of 1,868sqm and 28 car spaces, the property offers exposure to major thoroughfare Murray Street (Princes Highway) with a street frontage of 30 metres. 
Colac, a lakefront regional centre and the largest township in the Colac-Ottway shire continues to grow in popularity with a strong population of 13,058 and an exceptional range of amenities.
The property was sold by Rick Silberman and Steven Lerche of Savills Australia who said this was the first time the property had been offered in 30 years.  
“It was previously a Coles Supermarket for many years until they outgrew the space and Cheap as Chips took over in 2017 on a new 10 year lease, plus additional options," Mr Silberman said.
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Victoria retail investment sold for $3.72 million despite stage 4 lockdown

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A 600sqm facility in Kunda Park has been leased to Gold Coast company Classic Concrete Pumping on a five-year term.
Jason O’Meara of Savills had the listing. 
The facility at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/leased/property-12-tectonic-crescent-kunda-park-qld-4556-503439554">12 Tectonic Crescent</a> includes office and warehouse and 1,500sqm hardstand security fenced yard.
Savills received solid enquiry though February and into March as there is currently a massive shortage for sheds this size with useable, secure and compacted hardstand. 
“Standalone industrial properties such as this are in demand at present and there are few of them as most buildings account for 50-55% of site coverage, so to get the extra area for hardstand and truck set down areas is challenging” Mr O’Meara said.
Classic Concrete Pumping emerged 17 years ago when company founder and Managing Director Peter Gisinger had a passionate belief that he could build a successful concrete pumping business.
<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/2020/9/21/12%20Tectonic%20Cres%20Kunda%20Park%20-%20Tony%20Douglass%20Classic%20Concrete%20Pumping%20Manager%20-%20Sunshine%20Coast%20Right%20Jason%20OMeara%20of%20Savills.jpg" alt="">
 
Four pre-loved concrete pumps, referred to more often as ‘Jurassic’ than ‘Classic’ and eight hard working crew set out to prove their worth. 
Classic Concrete Pumping have resolutely built a reputation for outstanding service and with that built a loyal customer base and grew their fleet, crew and company HQ to keep up.
“We are strongly committed to the Sunshine Coast and committed to industry-best service and customer satisfaction with 90 employees between our 3 locations on the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Kunda Park depot” Peter Gisinger said.
Sunshine Coast Manager Tony Douglass said the business has a very modern fleet in total of 46 units, from line pumps, both low and high pressure, to 3 x 58m booms, and most sizes in between. 
“Our equipment is fully certified, plant registered and periodically independently inspected. These stringent measures guarantee safe, modern equipment to our job GPS tracked means we always know where your machine is”. 
"There has been good industrial leasing traction over recent months in Kunda Park with net absorption of factory/warehouse space on the incline. Industrial leasing activity through Covid to mid-year has been encouraging. 
"We have witnessed some strong lease transactions with Savills leasing 506 Maroochydore Road in Kunda Park to a Brisbane based company Oxworks Pty Ltd.
Other businesses to lease larger facilities in the immediate area recently include Sydney Tools and Express Print and Mail taking up occupancy on Maroochydore Road.
“We are aware of a number of larger tenants looking for suitable space, but with limited options to put to them, and a shortage of land generally mid coast, Savills would be keen to talk to owners with expiring leases or vacant warehouses coming up for lease” said Mr O’Meara.
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Tectonic Crescent, Kinda Park facility leased 

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
The impact of HomeBuilder is now emerging in the ABS Building Approvals Data and there is a significant divergence between the outlook for detached and multi-unit dwellings.
After a number of years of decline, building approvals in Western Australia increased by 32.9 per cent in the month of August. This is consistent with other leading indicators that show that HomeBuilder and the State Government’s Building Bonus have stimulated demand for new homes,” added Ms Lillicrap.
Western Australia also had a very short pipeline of work and these approvals will lead to the commencement of building work on the ground within weeks. This surge lifts the number of approvals to levels last experienced in 2018.
Queensland also saw a 13.4 per cent increase in detached building approvals, confirming that it is also experiencing a surge in new work entering the building pipeline, also from a low base.
Other regions are yet to see the pickup in activity due to HomeBuilder. This reflects a range of factors including, longer processing times with local councils and delays in the finalisation of building plans between the customer and builder, and a stronger pipeline of existing work.
New Home Sales data also suggests that detached house approvals will continue to grow over coming months and across all jurisdictions.
Multi-unit approvals fell by 12.9 per cent in the month to be 14.1 per cent below this time last year.
The small number of multi-unit projects that are gaining approval at this time are likely to have commenced the planning and building approval process years ago.
The multi-unit market has cooled since 2018, after several years of record levels of construction. Activity in this part of the market is likely to remain depressed until there is greater certainty about the pathway for overseas migration to be restored.
In seasonally adjusted terms, the number of detached dwelling approvals during August 2020 compared to June, increased in Western Australia (+32.9 per cent), Queensland (+13.4 per cent) and New South Wales (+0.2 per cent. They declined slightly in Victoria (-0.8 per cent) and South Australia (-0.9 per cent).
The number of multi-unit approvals increased in Western Australia (+43.9 per cent) and Victoria (+6.5 per cent). They declined in Queensland (-3.3 per cent), South Australia (-23.9 per cent) and New South Wales (-31.9 per cent).
Angela Lillicrap is an HIA Economist
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HomeBuilder's impact clearly seen across detached building approvals: HIA's Angela Lillicrap

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Boarding houses have proven to be one of the most resilient investments during COVID-19 with strong buyer demand leading to around $10 million in sales over the past three months.
Two development sites with approval for boarding houses have recently been sold in deals negotiated by Knight Frank, with a third sale of a boutique site sold for build to rent purposes.
A 975.5sq m property at 10 Naree Road in Frenchs Forest with approval for the demolition of an existing residential property and construction of a boutique 28 self-contained studio apartment ‘new generation’ boarding house was sold prior to auction for above $3 million.
The property was sold by Anthony Pirrottina, Demi Carigliano and Arland Domingo of Knight Frank after strong competition from local developers.
Another property at 88 Liverpool Road in Summer Hill, a 319.4sq m site with approval for a mixed-use development comprising one commercial tenancy and eight residential apartments totalling 465sq m, sold for $1.975 million after 111 bids at auction. The deal was negotiated by Anthony Pirrottina and Demi Carigliano of Knight Frank to a purchaser seeking to develop and retain the property as a mini ‘build to rent’ scheme.
A third DA approved boarding house development was transacted in the mid $3 million range offmarket in Ashfield to a local developer seeking to bolster their exposure to the boarding house and Inner West Sydney rental market.
Mr Pirrottina said that while the property market has been challenging in certain sectors since Coronavirus restrictions began in March, boarding houses continue to remain a strong investment class, with strong buyer interest particularly from a development perspective."
Mr Carigliano said as an investment class, boarding houses were a niche sector but buyer appetite had grown over the past three years in New South Wales, when planning laws were amended to allow for greater development of these assets.
“These assets provide buyers – who are often developers – with passive income and yields in the vicinity of 5% to 6.5% compared to a 3% to 4% yields for blocks of residential units,"  “The best performing assets are located in suburban Sydney markets, close to infrastructure including hospitals, public transport and universities. “Boarding houses can also be sold in one line as they are not strata-titled like units, which means investors can trade out of the asset faster if desired.”
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