Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bottega-property-group">Bottega House</a> has secured council approval for its first Brisbane project - a $270 million luxury residential development on an absolute riverfront site in leafy St Lucia.&nbsp;

The 15-storey project, known as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-lucia-by-bottega-house-180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">St Lucia by Bottega House</a> , will occupy a prime north-facing site at 178-180 Macquarie Street, directly fronting the Brisbane River in the established inner-west suburb known for its rowing clubs, golf courses and sprawling University of Queensland campus.&nbsp;

St Lucia by Bottega House will feature a suite of amenities including dedicated wellness spaces, a mineral pool and cold plunge. The project has been positioned to attract affluent owner-occupiers seeking high-quality, house-sized apartments.&nbsp;

Bottega House has been set up by co-directors Nick Malloch, Louis Mennes and Craig Marsh.

Malloch said the project drew inspiration from its Brisbane River setting and leafy inner-west surrounds, while responding to the demands of discerning locals looking to transition from freestanding homes into apartment living.&nbsp;

"With an expansive river frontage and lush green surrounds, we knew we had to create something special that reflects the natural beauty of the location while offering residents masterfully crafted homes," said Malloch.&nbsp;

"Our intent was to complement the project's quiet, private setting by introducing residences that offer a calm retreat and sanctuary from the everyday. The result is a harmonious blend of architecture, interiors and amenity that emphasises wellbeing, comfort and beauty without excess."&nbsp;

Malloch added that project consultants had been carefully selected in alignment with Bottega House's commitment to care, quality and attention to detail. The design team includes architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, interiors practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/urbis">Urbis</a>.&nbsp;

Three-bedroom apartments are expected to start around $5 millio. Selling agents Keenan &amp; Byrne said the pricing strategy for the project was anticipated to achieve upwards of $25,500 per square metre.&nbsp;

The project's development approval this week follows the success of Bottega House's inaugural Queensland project - a 22-storey collection of full-floor sky homes at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast which included the sale of a two-storey penthouse at a record price for a beachside residence.&nbsp;

St Lucia by Bottega House is expected to launch to market in November, with construction anticipated to be completed mid 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151826]

Joel Robinson

Bottega House to make Brisbane debut with St Lucia riverfront apartment development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> is advancing its affordable apartment model into Brisbane with the acquisition of another site at Cordelia Street in South Brisbane for $27 million.

Sherpa, which has a $1.7 billion pipeline across Southeast Queensland, intends to bring a cohort of apartments exclusively for first homebuyers into its proposed 186-apartment project to be built at 2 Cordelia Street.

The Sherpa model has already been incredibly well received from their Gold Coast projects, where Sherpa Group set aside a number of apartments exclusively for first homebuyers.

The new $320 million project marks Sherpa Group's second development in Brisbane, following its $255 million Symphony project, also on Cordelia Street, which is currently under construction.

Symphony will deliver 146 apartments across 28 levels, offering a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments. With 114 already sold, construction by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/lps-group">LPS Group</a> is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7574 project_image_fid=351654]

Sherpa Founder, Christie Leet, said the company was excited to be venturing into Brisbane for its second residential project.

“We’re big believers in the future of Brisbane as we lead into the 2032 Olympics and beyond,” Leet said.

“The success of Symphony has guided us into what will be our second project and we look forward to submitting our plans with council soon so we can deliver yet another quality project to the inner city residential market.

“Our Flourish model has been very well received both in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and we’re excited to be able to offer some of these apartments again exclusively to first homebuyers to help get them into the property market.

“The model has been extraordinarily well received in our previous projects and it is something we are committed to moving forward.”

2 Cordelia Street will be designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hal-architects">HAL Architects</a> &amp; Finegrain and will include Sherpa’s signature residential amenities including pool, gym, recreation, wellness and work from home spaces.

The project will feature ground-floor commercial space, creating a vibrant amenity for residents and the surrounding community.

A development application will be lodged with Brisbane City Council in August on the code compliant site and will be launched to the market early 2027.

Sherpa acquires new site for second Brisbane apartment tower

One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

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fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

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FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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

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

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The latest research from Docklands Cityscope shows around 74 sales at a total value of $1.671 billion for the 12 months to January 2018.
It compared to 42 sales at a total value of $306.5 million for the previous year.
The table below shows sales recorded for the past eight updates of Docklands Cityscope.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/2/6/docklands%201.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<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/2018/2/6/docklands%201.jpg" alt="">
The commercial property sales activity significantly decreased in total sales value for the quarter to January 2018, when there were 16 sales at a total sales value of $33.2 million, compared to 22 sales at a total value of $386.1 million for the previous quarter.
Its notable sales in the January 2018 update of Docklands Cityscope included:
<ul>
<li>Aurecon Centre at 850 Collins Street, an eight-storey office building with retail space on the ground floor and car parking, with building area 17,337 sqm plus 120 car space lots in property at 852 Collins Street, which were bought for $15.61 million; </li>
<li>Units 211E, Unit 212E, Unit 213E, three first floor retail shops and Unit 214E, a first floor commercial unit located in the Waterfront City at 425 Docklands Drive, which were bought for $5 million and </li>
<li>Unit 118E in the Waterfront City at 425 Docklands Drive, which was bought for $2.5 million. </li>
</ul>
<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/2018/2/6/docklands%202.jpg" alt="">
 
Several properties were listed as for sale in January including:
<ul>
<li>Channel 7 Melbourne Broadcast Centre, 160 Harbour Esplanade, an office/studio building of five storeys plus basement parking for 144 spaces, with a total net lettable area of 7,980 sqm, for sale through Colliers International; </li>
<li>Lot 127 in Lifestyle Working Collins at 838 Collins Street, a 74 sqm commercial unit on level 1, for sale through Jalin Reality Australia Pty Ltd – Melbourne and</li>
<li>1G/439 Docklands Drive in the Waterfront City Stage 1, a 200 sqm retail premises on the ground floor of the west building at the northern end, for sale through No Agent Property – Moorabbin. </li>
</ul>
There were leasing opportunities too including:
<ul>
<li>The V1 residential tower , 8 McCrae Street, a 21 storey building with 13 retail premises to the street frontages and one small first floor office unit, has retail space ranging from 76 to 202 sqm for lease through TT Global – Melbourne; </li>
<li>380 Docklands Drive, an A-Grade, 11-storey office building, consisting of retail space on the ground level, parking on levels 1 to 3, and office space on levels 4 to 10, has office space ranging from 200 to 466 sqm for lease through Colliers International – Melbourne and Knight Frank  and </li>
<li>Aurecon Centre, 850 Collins Street, an eight-storey office building with retail space on the ground floor and car parking, has office space ranging from 440 to 1,790 sqm for lease through Colliers International – Melbourne. </li>
</ul>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Docklands sees $1.6 billion in 2017 commercial property sales: Cityscope

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Set across the road from the hallowed MCG, the Pullman on the Park hotel has been listed with $200 million plus price hopes.
The hotel, managed by the AccorHotels since 2015, has been under the ownership of the Canada-based real estate firm Brookfield since 2012 when they took over ASX-listed Thakral Holdings.
It had previously been Hilton on the Park, a 419 room landmark hotel on Wellington Parade.
Upgraded last year with a $6 million renovation, it was built on the site of the 1880s Cliveden Mansion alongside Fitzroy Gardens.
<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/2018/2/6/pullman2.jpg" alt="">
JLL Hotels are <a href="http://property.jll.com.au/hotel-sale/east%20melbourne/pullman-melbourne-on-the-park-6015" target="_blank">marketing the property</a> in conjunction with McVay Real Estate's Sam and Dan McVay who are taking expressions of interest until March 15.
The Hilton South Wharf recently fetched $230 million last year; Qatar Airways bought the Sheraton Melbourne from Golden Age at around $135 million and there was the off-the-plan $220 million sale of the new W Hotel to be built at Collins Arch in February to Japan's Daisho.
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Melbourne's Pullman on the Park hotel for sale

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The film maker Ian Darling has bought the Woollahra commercial office premises he'd been renting in the heart of Woollahra's Queen Street shopping precinct.
The off market $10.9 million trade was the highest commercial sale on the pricey retail Queen Street strip.
The only prices higher have been leisure assets including the Woollahra Hotel, which fetched $23,681,000 when sold in 2015, plus the business value which took the reported acquisition costs to around $30 million. 
Real estate agency Goodyer had previous occupied the second level at <a href="http://www.commercialview.com.au/109-queen-street-woollahra-nsw/commercial-for-lease-details-11185296" target="_blank">109 Queen Street</a> which Darling secured recently.
Wholefoods had been a retail tenant. It has been the headquarters of the Pongrass Property Group.
It was sold by the Yared family.
Darling is the founder and executive chair of Shark Island Institute and executive director of its production arm, Shark Island Productions, a documentary company.
His documentary credits as a producer, director and executive producer include Suzy &amp; The Simple Man, The Genesis and The White Blindfold among a number of others.
Last year he was named Australia's Leading Philanthropist by Philanthropy Australia.
The highest price paid for a house on Queen Street is $13 million, set in 2016 when style-setter and former Vogue staffer Rebecca Caratti bought the renocated Clyde Cottage in Woollahra.
Caratti, daughter of Perth earth moving tycoon John Caratti, emerged as the buyer of the home that belonged to one Singapore's richest people, Ronald Anthony Ooi and his wife Erica Han.
They bought it as a run down cottage for $4 million in 2011.
 
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Highest commercial price ever on Queen Street, Woollahra 

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A Melbourne-based developer has secured four permit-approved Cheltenham properties for $6.5 million before they hit the market.
The 2,867 square metre corner allotment, which encompasses 1-2 Moola Street and 4-6 Barker Street, has potential for 49 units.
Savills Australia’s Julian Heatherich brokered the deal on behalf of a local investor, securing a land rate of $2,260 per square metre or $132,000 per unit.
Heatherich said the sale was a positive sign of the year ahead.
“2018 has kicked off with a flurry of activity, with developers back in force looking for their next opportunity,” he said.
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Off-market Cheltenham development site sale

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Electric car industry leader Tesla Australia has leased a Cremorne warehouse in a leasing deal signed over the holiday period.
The near 700 square metre warehouse at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-vic-cremorne-500641183" target="_blank">69 Cremorne Street</a> was leased by the electric car company on a two years lease at $118,000 gross plus GST.
Located on the eastern side of Cremorne Street between Swan and Kelso Streets, the freehold property adjoins Kangan Institute and their Richmond TAFE Campus.
It sits on 870 square metres and has a 15 metre frontage to Cremorne Street.
Gray Johnson agent Rory White, who negotiated the leasing, believes the Tesla occupancy is to complement the existing retail store, service centre and supercharger vehicle loading facility that is nearby at 650 Church Street in Richmond.
White said that the building, which was offered for lease and was vacant, attracted significant enquiry.
“The inner-suburban precinct of Cremorne has become a highly preferred destination for creative and specialist businesses including a number in the automotive sector and professional consultancies no doubt due to its proximity to all that adjoining Richmond offers together with its excellent accessibility to major road and freeway connections.
“Gray Johnson held multiple offers to enter into a lease over this property before the Tesla offer was judged as the preferred tenancy option” White says. 
Tesla has a service and supercharging facility nearby in Richmond. 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Tesla Australia take out lease in Cremorne, Melbourne

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EG, one of Australia’s leading real estate fund managers, has acquired the first asset for the High Income Sustainable Office Trust (HISOT). 
The East Block asset is a strategically located heritage asset in the Parliamentary Triangle, Canberra. 
EG will improve the energy efficiency of the building by leveraging technological advances and active asset management under the HISOT mandate. It will form a key part of the future revitalisation of the Canberra precinct.
“EG are pleased to see the compelling sustainable investment fund launch with a strongly placed asset that will benefit from the uplift in energy savings and active asset management strategy,” say EG's Aurelio di Napoli.
The property has a net lettable area of approximately 4,958 sqm and has an eight year WALE following the completion of Lessor works. The current tenant is the National Archives of Australia.
EG’s HISOT fund had its first close in 2016. The fund mandate is to target assets that will benefit from raising the NABERS rating. It is underpinned by a strong ethical and environmental commitment by the unit holders that will reduce the overall impact of a building while driving a significant increase in the asset value.
The Clean Energy Finance Corporation was a cornerstone equity investor in HISOT.
 CEFC Investment Funds Lead Rory Lonergan said the CEFC is delighted to see their investment in HISOT contributing to energy efficiency improvements in this iconic precinct.
"This is another demonstration of the flexibility and suitability of clean energy across our built environment.
"It’s absolutely vital that new buildings are built to the highest energy standards as we move to zero carbon emissions.
"It’s equally important that we make these improvements to existing buildings, extending their life as well as ensuring they benefit from latest technologies which reduce energy costs and lower their carbon footprint.
“Through our investment in the HISOT, the CEFC is keen to see the development and refurbishment of older buildings. 
"Energy efficient buildings have lower operating costs and have the potential to provide higher net operating income with lower vacancy rates, providing clear benefits to building owners, investors and tenants.”
The vendor was Commonwealth of Australia and the deal was brokered by Tony Massaro and the PwC Real Estate Advisory Team in Sydney.
 
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EG pays $15.4 million for central Canberra office asset

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As expected, the Reserve Bank Board decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 1.5% at its February Board meeting. The Governor’s decision statement indicates that the Bank’s central forecasts for growth and inflation remain unchanged and emphasises that the Board will be patient in assessing progress. Policy is firmly on hold.
The most substantive change is an additional line given prominence in the concluding paragraph stating that: “Further progress in reducing unemployment and having inflation return to target is expected, although this progress is likely to be gradual.” The clear message is that the Bank will not pre-empt things – it is prepared to wait for an improvement in actual conditions to come through before contemplating any changes.
Elsewhere in the statement, the Bank indicates its forecasts are unchanged with growth “to average a bit above 3 per cent” and CPI inflation “to be a bit above 2 per cent in 2018”. Note that the Bank’s current forecasts, from the November Statement on Monetary, have real GDP growth lifting to 3¼% in 2018 and headline CPI inflation lifting to 2¼% (but underlying inflation holding at 1¾%). The Bank will release updated forecasts with the February Statement on Monetary Policy on Friday.
As expected, the Governor’s statement acknowledged the more positive tone from abroad and from some of the domestic data. The global backdrop is now described as a “broad-based pick-up”. China’s growth is described as solid with what seems to be a more positive take on risks (“authorities paying increased attention to the risks in the financial sector and the sustainability of growth”). Global inflation remains low but is now viewed as likely to “increase over the next couple of years”.
On the domestic economy, comments are more mixed with data over the summer viewed as consistent with the Bank’s forecast for growth to pick up but household consumption a “continuing source of uncertainty” given weak growth in household incomes and high debt levels. Commentary around the labour market is largely unchanged from December – strong job gains in 2017 and indicators pointing to solid growth ahead but wages growth low and likely to stay low for a while yet. A new comment that the Bank expects “a further gradual reduction in the unemployment rate” is consistent with its November forecasts but again places the emphasis on shifts being slow to come through.
This slowness is also emphasised in an additional comment on inflation, which is seen as “likely to remain low for some time, reflecting low growth in labour costs and strong competition in retailing”.
Wording on the Australian dollar was unchanged except for a slight qualifier that the view “it remains within the range that it has been in over the past two years” is on a trade-weighted basis. With the AUD/USD cross retracing sharply in recent sessions (currently back to 0.786 USD from well over 0.800 USD) the need to bolster their rhetoric has faded.
Lastly, the Bank again notes that “housing prices are little changed over the past six months” but adds that prices have “recorded falls in some areas” – a slight contrast to the December statement which instead noted “conditions have eased in Sydney” and gave a little less prominence to the observation.
Conclusion
Overall, the February decision and Governor’s statement contained few surprises. The Bank continues to expect a lift in growth and inflation over coming years and, with the improvement expected to be gradual, is signalling that it is prepared to be patient in assessing how conditions are evolving.
The RBA’s ‘patient approach’ ensures policy will remain on hold over the first half of 2018. Westpac continues to see a more challenging year ahead for the Australian consumer and another sub-par year for wider economic growth. As such we continue to expect rates to stay on hold through the remainder of 2018 and in 2019.
Matthew Hassan is senior economist with <a href="https://www.westpac.com.au/" target="_blank">Westpac</a>.
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Matthew_Hassan-HHWHptmrw4

RBA's patient approach will see rates on hold through to 2019: Matthew Hassan

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<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
The Harry Café de Wheels owner Michael Hannah and his co-owners are selling the home of Hannah's Pies in Ultimo at March 1 auction.
The <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/562-576-harris-street-ultimo-nsw-2007-2014137555" target="_blank">Harris Street site</a> is tipped to fetch about $20 million through Colliers.
It is made up of a warehouse and adjoining terraces. 
<div class="related-quotes section">It is adjacent to accommodation provider Urbanest's Darling Square.</div>
Hannah's Pies, which sells pies over the counter at Harris Street, is the sole supplier to Harry Café de Wheels outlets.
The sale of the property comes as the pie cart business launches in China, with up to 300 of its carts to be rolled out across the country over the next 15 years.
</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-media section"><img class="lazy620x0" src="http://www.afr.com/content/dam/images/h/0/m/8/u/v/image.imgtype.afrArticleInline.620x0.png/1516592915083.jpg" alt="The site at 562-576 Harris Street, which is made up of a warehouse and adjoining terraces, has been put up for sale by ..." width="620" data-src="http://www.afr.com/content/dam/images/h/0/m/8/u/v/image.imgtype.afrArticleInline.620x0.png/1516592915083.jpg"></div>
<div class="cq-article-content-media section"> </div>
<div class="cq-article-content-media section">"Its proximity to both the revitalised Darling Harbour and International Convention Centre is going to be a huge drawcard for both local and offshore groups," Colliers International's Miron Solomons said.</div>
<div class="related-quotes section"> </div>
<div class="related-quotes section">He expects interest from student accommodation providers given its proximity within Sydney's university precinct including the University of Technology Sydney and University of Sydney.</div>
<div class="related-quotes section"> </div>
<div class="related-quotes section">The offering is expected mirror the sale of the nearby vacant site at 142-152 Broadway which the University of Notre Dame bought for for $21 million or $40,000 a square metre, Colliers International said.</div>
<div class="related-quotes section"> </div>
<div class="related-quotes section">The pie group has now expanded to more than 10 locations throughout Sydney and more recently into Asia.
</div>
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Hannah's Pies premises listed in Ultimo

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When investors are looking for good places to buy, consistency is a quality worth seeking. And the factor where consistency matters the most is in sales activity.
Some markets deliver steady levels of home sales, regardless of the booms or busts going on around them.
In each quarterly edition of The Price Predictor Index published by Hotspotting, we have spotlight the consistency markets – and we nominate a location as a nation’s most consistent market.
We have a strong focus on consistency markets because these are solid places for both home-buyers and investors.
The places we call the consistency markets sit in the middle of the spectrum, between the growth regions and the declining ones.
These are locations which record a consistent rate of sale, quarter after quarter, regardless of external events.  They represent safety for investors. 
And while they are often not boom markets, places with this high level of even performance usually produce solid price growth over time. 
They’re the housing market’s version of the “slow and steady wins the race” story.
In our new Summer edition of The Price Predictor Index, our award for the nation’s outstanding consistency market goes to Ulladulla in the Shoalhaven LGA in regional New South Wales.
It has sold between 43 and 58 homes in each of the past 13 quarters. Few locations in the country achieve that level of steadiness.
Ulladulla has a median house price of $510,000, after a 15 percent rise in the past 12 months.
To further illustrate the kind of growth that can happen in these steady performers, the winner in our Spring 2017 edition - Echuca in Victoria - had a 7 percent annual rise, while in the Winter 2017 edition our “most consistent market” - Sunbury  on the northern fringe of Melbourne - had a 10.4 percent annual increase. 
Generally in this report we look for locations where sales activity is rising, as these places are likely to deliver price growth. But the figures presented here for Ulladulla, Echuca and Sunbury show that steady market performers can achieve solid price growth as well.
As it’s not just short-term growth. Lalor Park in Sydney’s western suburbs, another noted consistency performer, has a long-term growth average (average annual growth in median house prices over 10 years) of 10 percent for year.
Greystanes in Sydney, which consistently sells 70-75 houses per quarter, averages 8.5 percent a year in median price growth.
Camp Hill, a suburb of Brisbane, has been averaging 7 percent per year.
Caroline Springs, a very steady sales market in western Melbourne, has averaged 7 percent per year. Frankston, which is both consistent and prolific in south-eastern Melbourne, has averaged 8 percent.
Some investors chase boom markets, seeking exponential short-term growth, and often end up with disappointing results.
There’s a lot to be said for the steady performers, which provide both safety and good long-term capital growth.
Very often, the tortoise out-performs the hare. 
Terry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au
<a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au">ryder@hotspotting.com.au</a>
<a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">twitter.com/hotspotting</a>
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Lalor Park price growth highlights importance of consistency for investors

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<div>One of the easier trades you'll ever come across, with inflation missing market expectations yet gain. Money for jam, here. Rate hikes never were on the cards any time soon - as well documented here often enough - but that's even more obvious now with inflation missing (yet again!). 
</div>
<div>Both of the core measures came in at just +0.4 per cent for the December quarter.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>While underlying inflation rate ticked up to +1.9 per cent, the 6-month annualised pace is incredibly weak at just +1.6 per cent. Inflation has now missed the 2-3 per cent target on the downside for 9 consecutive quarters, and the pulse looks to have weakened again. </div>
 
<div><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XlzLIPRQpu4/WnEZzIZqnVI/AAAAAAAAoJU/rzj9H0OJ5NUP_8uwQveXyc47vGd8NtzuQCLcBGAs/s640/A1.jpg" width="640" height="388" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="1359"></div>
 Tradables prices picked up a bit in the December quarter, but were negative over the year. 
<div><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kxw_kvG6T8g/WnEZzNT9e7I/AAAAAAAAoJQ/v0T7c3gZZmc6pjln-mpGi6LhcMFX1ryUACLcBGAs/s640/A3.jpg" width="640" height="392" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="1346"></div>
<div> </div>
<div>The headline result of +0.6 per cent for the quarter and +1.9 per cent for the year was pumped by a jump in fuel and fruit prices (someone needs to look up whether avocados and capsicums are fruits or vegetables, I have no idea). </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Overall, though, this was once again very weak underlying inflation, though importantly the result was not under the Reserve Bank's forecast for the end of the year.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>So that basically means that interest rates will be left on hold for a record length of time, barring a shock of some kind.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Rents off the mat</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Rents began to rise moderately again in 2017, mainly thanks to Sydney (+2.4 per cent).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Rents were negative in the December quarter in Brisbane, while in Perth rents are some 16 per cent below their peak. </div>
 
<div><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J1Hs5n8pTqQ/WnEZzEsmQuI/AAAAAAAAoJY/eC-Oyr-Y9sAcEVWZFcCAcaZ0rol-BOElQCLcBGAs/s640/A2.jpg" width="640" height="374" data-original-height="818" data-original-width="1398"></div>
 Sydney rents (+52 per cent) have doubled the of inflation (+27 per cent) over the past decade.
 
<div><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h8w2l0xyyCI/WnEZzng4KmI/AAAAAAAAoJc/fbvJr9MBycYnJXjOM2wyCEImtv1Gv0T_QCLcBGAs/s640/A4.jpg" width="640" height="374" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1411"></div>
 
<div>The wrap</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The Reserve Bank's models already seemed to suggest that underlying inflation wouldn't get back to the mid-point of the target range at 2.5 per cent for years to come (possibly about 4 years!). </div>
<div> </div>
<div>And now this result has missed market expectations too, for the fifth consecutive quarter. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The main takeaway is all the talk of imminent rate hikes was little more than wishful thinking. Indeed, given the Reserve Bank's stated mandate, logically either the next move in rates should be down or the economy should returning to full employment. Either way, there was little to fear in these numbers for mortgagees and housing market fanatics.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.</div>
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