Apartment buildings are increasingly being designed around how people actually live day to day, not just how they want a building to look.

For buyers, that shift is showing up in practical inclusions that respond to changing habits. Work-from-home spaces, EV charging, wellness amenities, secure bike storage and parcel management are becoming part of the broader apartment conversation, reflecting a move toward buildings that reduce friction in everyday life.

Online shopping has become one of the clearest examples of that change.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online. That has made parcel delivery a regular part of apartment living, rather than an occasional inconvenience.

For apartment residents, however, the delivery process can be less straightforward than it is for detached homes. Parcels may be left in lobbies, redirected to Post Offices, missed entirely, or placed under the responsibility of building managers and concierge teams.

That is why secure parcel infrastructure is increasingly being considered alongside more familiar apartment amenities.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-VjjLwoViX0?si=A3k7ws9NX35Uac7_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post Parcel Lockers offer one way to address the issue. When a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS, then collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN. The parcel is kept secure, accessible and removed from common areas.

The broader Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations across Australia, positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and other accessible locations.

For new apartment projects, the relevance is clear. A building’s amenity offering is no longer only about lifestyle spaces, but also about convenience, security and functionality.

As buyer expectations evolve, secure parcel delivery is becoming part of the same design conversation as flexible working, sustainable transport and resident wellbeing.

It is one less thing for residents to worry about, and another example of apartment design adapting to the way Australians now live.

Joel Robinson

Apartment design is adapting to the way Australians shop

While school holidays and trips to Europe tend to define the winter property market, there's been no cold snap at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> in North Sydney.

Developer-builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a> sold more than $35 million worth of apartments throughout June, including a $6.8 million apartment that now ranks among the highest apartment sales ever recorded in North Sydney.

SRM Residential agent Ben Stewart said buyer demand throughout June reflected a mix of improving market confidence and longer-term thinking from owner-occupiers.

"We're seeing strong demand from owner-occupiers who are taking a longer-term view," Stewart said.

"Many recognise the opportunity to secure an apartment in an iconic building and premium location while values remain attractive. They may initially lease the property, but the intention is to eventually move in themselves, rather than purchasing purely as an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=367129]

Located at 177 Walker Street, The Walden will deliver 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across a 30-storey tower designed by Rothelowman. Every apartment occupies a corner position, maximising natural light, cross ventilation and views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Heads and the northern districts.

Rather than a traditional balcony, the residences feature winter gardens that seamlessly extend the open plan living areas, creating versatile spaces for relaxing or entertaining throughout the year. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws in natural light while showcasing sweeping views from the building's elevated Walker Street position.

Every apartment features high-end Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, and fully integrated appliances.

The larger residences have been planned with distinct entertaining and private zones, with many master suites positioned on corners to capture natural light and harbour views. Walk-in dressing rooms, freestanding baths and refined stone finishes reinforce the house-like feel that has resonated with downsizers and owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6393]

Rothelowman Principal Ben Pomroy said the project was designed to make the most of its unique position overlooking the harbour.

"The Walden is a celebration of all things beautiful, curated for those who expect nothing less than exceptional," Pomroy says.

"Meticulously designed entertaining spaces and light-filled living areas that capitalise on capturing the natural beauty of Sydney's iconic harbour."

Residents will also have exclusive access to The Pavilion, a dedicated amenity building featuring a rooftop pool, wellness studio, gymnasium, sauna, concierge service, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and work-from-home facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6402]

The project marks ALAND's first major luxury apartment development in Sydney's inner-city market after more than two decades delivering residential communities across Greater Sydney.

Founder and CEO Andrew Hrsto previously said the rarity of the Walker Street site made it an opportunity the company could not overlook.

"This is a rare opportunity to bring a truly exceptional project to life in one of Sydney's most iconic locations, and to showcase our craftsmanship and design expertise at a world-class level," Hrsto said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6383]

The Walden has been introduced to the market at a time when demand for living in North Sydney is at an all-time high. Billions of dollars have been invested in infrastructure, including the recently opened Victoria Cross Metro station, located just 300 metres from The Walden, providing residents with direct access to the Sydney CBD in just minutes.

Private investment has also transformed the area through the arrival of new retail and dining destinations, elevating the lifestyle offering in what was once considered primarily a commercial precinct rather than an aspirational residential address.

The Walden is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

First look: ‘Far more than replacing a shopping centre’ as Conquest unveils 736-home Eastlakes redevelopment

Abadeen has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for one of Mosman's largest apartment developments in recent years, seeking approval to transform the former Honeysuckle Garden and Midas site on Military Road into a 100-apartment mixed-use development.

The SSDA, lodged with investment partner Phoenix Property Investors, proposes around $230 million worth of new housing on the prominent <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/494-516-military-road-mosman-nsw-2088">494-516 Military Road</a> site.

The proposal comes as Mosman Council continues to progress its recently endorsed Masterplan, which identifies the precinct for increased housing density while maintaining the suburb's established character.

Designed by DKO Architecture, the development would comprise 100 apartments above ground-floor retail, with a rooftop wellness precinct including a gym, sauna, entertaining areas and landscaped communal spaces.

Rather than pushing to the full 12-storey height identified in Council's Masterplan, the proposal ranges between five and nine storeys, stepping down towards Hale Road. A tenth level would accommodate resident amenities rather than additional apartments.

The project has been designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and young professionals through to families and local downsizers looking to remain on the Lower North Shore.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5dada03f-5b4c-43ba-ba62-2868add31440" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.57.55%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7LBy0B.Jo8_iWAFJsClcV7Q3UnXrv49r" />

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock.

"The apartments have been designed as genuine long-term homes, with efficient floorplans that maximise usable living areas, generous storage, natural light and strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces," Brown says."

"We've focused on creating homes for a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and growing families through to downsizers who want to remain in Mosman."

The rooftop wellness offering forms a key part of the proposal, with residents set to have access to a gym, sauna, outdoor entertaining spaces, communal dining areas, landscaped gardens and a multi-use recreation court overlooking Sydney Harbour.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d37c2d6b-583a-4a0f-b7a9-9f46b893d2f4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.58.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=FPoa5FCm2RtzjhAh2w5FTWJbV6GHfY8D" />

DKO drew heavily on the site's natural and cultural history, undertaking a Connecting with Country process with local Aboriginal Elders to inform the architectural and landscape design.

Senior Associate Matthew Ritchard said the design sought to create a building that responded to both the site's landscape and its cultural significance.

"The architectural language of the project is a deep expression of Connecting with Country, where the materiality and colour palette serve as a bridge between the site's geological history and its future as a residential sanctuary."

The proposal also retains the site's established blue gum tree as the centrepiece of the communal landscaped gardens, while introducing activated retail fronting Military Road to strengthen the connection between Mosman and Cremorne villages.

If approved, the project would deliver 100 new homes within walking distance of shops, public transport, schools and local amenities, adding to the limited pipeline of new apartments on the Lower North Shore.

<h2>Project Snapshot</h2>

Project: Honeysuckle Garden Redevelopment

Address: 494-516 Military Road, Mosman

Developer: Abadeen and Phoenix Property Investors

Architect: DKO Architecture

Lead Architect: Matthew Ritchard

Value: $230 million

Residences: 100 apartments

Key features:

<ul>
	<li>
	Ground-floor retail
	</li>
	<li>
	Rooftop wellness precinct
	</li>
	<li>
	Gym and sauna
	</li>
	<li>
	Outdoor entertaining and BBQ areas
	</li>
	<li>
	Landscaped communal gardens
	</li>
	<li>
	Multi-use recreation court
	</li>
	<li>
	Retained mature blue gum tree
	</li>
	<li>
	Connecting with Country design process
	</li>
	<li>
	Harbour, CBD and Balmoral views from upper-level apartments
	</li>
</ul>

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock

First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman

The wave of apartment proposals sweeping through Mosman shows no signs of slowing, with another major residential development lodged through the NSW Government's State Significant Development pathway.

Developer First Quadrant Properties, which recently completed Willoughby Grounds and has several projects in planning across the North Shore, has unveiled plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cove-on-ourimbah-40-56-ourimbah-road-mosman-nsw-2088">Cove on Ourimbah</a>, a 63-apartment development on Ourimbah Road, adding to the growing pipeline of projects reshaping one of Sydney's most tightly held harbour suburbs.

The proposal would consolidate nine properties at 40-56 Ourimbah Road into a part eight, part nine-storey apartment building, continuing the momentum created by the NSW Government's accelerated planning pathways that have seen several significant developments emerge across Mosman over the past 12 months.

Designed by Doroch Architects, the project would deliver 63 apartments, resident wellness facilities including a gym, pool and sauna, landscaped communal spaces and basement parking, while using recessed upper levels, generous setbacks and extensive planting to reduce the perceived scale of the building.

<img alt="First look: First Quadrant Properties eyes nine-storey Mosman apartment project under State Significant pathway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32ee68e4-141e-4a10-8f83-48e961a5e71e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Ourimbah%20Road%2C%20Mosman%20a.png?VersionId=CUeILFc6APlwXPc.iplElbxHvREKwjig" />

Doroch Architects said the building had been designed to reinforce Mosman's established character.

"The building's aesthetic is grounded in the existing residential character of Ourimbah Road and the broader Mosman context," the architect noted in the planning documents submitted to the NSW Government.

The design adopts a contemporary material palette of natural stone, textured concrete and brown concave metal cladding, complemented by integrated planters and deep balconies. The podium incorporates softened curved concrete forms, while increased setbacks have been provided adjacent to the heritage-listed property at 60 Ourimbah Road to create a more sympathetic transition.

The site sits around 330 metres from Mosman Town Centre, placing it within the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy area, where increased residential density is being encouraged close to shops, transport and services.

The proposal follows a string of major apartment projects lodged or declared State Significant in Mosman in recent months, including Abadeen's 100-apartment Honeysuckle Garden redevelopment on Military Road and several other developments across Awaba Street, Redan Street and Muston Street from the likes of Time &amp; Place, HELM and Prosker Property.

&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/time-place-to-take-on-mosman-apartment-market">Time &amp; Place to take on Mosman apartment market</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-abadeen-plans-100-apartments-on-former-honeysuckle-garden-site-in-mosman">First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Another major apartment proposal signals Mosman's development boom

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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A retail property in Melbourne’s Brighton has sold for $1.45 million in an off-market transaction, on a record yield of 1.6% yield.
The <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property-profile/165-martin-street-brighton-vic-3186" target="_blank">165 Martin Street</a> property was formerly the home of the iconic Gardenvale Collectables, which specialised in historic VFL/AFL and sports memorabilia, and is now occupied by Laser &amp; Lashes. 
The selling agent was Fitzroys’ Mark Talbot, who recently sold the property next door as well. 
The property at 167 Martin Street sold for $1.55 million on a yield of 2.2%.
The 165 Martin Street property is located in the strip’s popular retail and hospitality precinct between Nepean Highway and Gardenvale train station.
“Martin Street is a thriving retail village surrounded by specialty retail and hospitality options, situated in one of the Melbourne’s most prestigious suburbs, and has significant potential for investors and owner occupiers,” Talbot said, adding the buyer didn’t want to pass up on the opportunity to secure a site in one of Melbourne’s most tightly held retail strips. 
“The precinct is surrounded by an established residential community that is slated for further population growth, and has a number of top-class education facilities nearby.” 
He said the large volume of enquiry for 167 Martin Street was able to be successfully converted into another record-breaking sale that satisfied both the vendor and purchaser. 
This marks Talbot’s third sale in the suburb over the past two months.
He also recently sold the two-storey café and dwelling building at 305 Bay Street, adjacent to North Brighton Station, at auction on a 3.3% yield for $2.255 million, setting a new benchmark price for a single-front retail property on Bay Street. 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Brighton retail property sells on record yield of 1.6 percent

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Victoria had three office sales in the first quarter of 2017 for a combined total of $730.5 million dollars, with New South Wales nine sales for a total of $605.8 million according to the Quarter Times National Office report from Savills.
Some 14 leases were signed in Victoria and Queensland during that time and 13 in New South Wales.
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 Office sales in the North Shore of Sydney totalled $446 million in the first quarter, wth Macquarie Park $120 million and the CBD at $9 million.
Sales in the Canberra suburb of Civic came to $321 million and the Brisbane fringe $205.5 million. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Q1 office sales in Victoria total over $730 million: Savills

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Aventus Property Group has purchased Home Hub Castle Hill and Home Hub Marsden Park for $436 million, beating off competition from Gerry Harvey to buy the two centres.
The sale represents a weighted average capitalisation rate of 5.6 percent.
Home Hub Castle Hill was purchased for $336 million at a fully leased yield of 5.50 percent and Home Hub Marsden Park for $100 million at a fully leased yield of 6.00 percent.
Simon Rooney, JLL’s head of retail investments, Australasia, said there is a very limited number of major, core assets in the LFR sector across Sydney, so these presented a rare opportunity to acquire significant scale in the sector.
"The sale of Home Hub Castle Hill and Home Hub Marsden Park was the largest homemaker transaction in Australia’s history," he said.
“The yield achieved resets the benchmark for premium large-format retail assets and represents a new record low for the sector.
"For this particular transaction, investors were forward buying growth by pricing in the potential for strong cash flow and rental uplifts.
"The fundamentals of both assets are well supported by population growth in each catchment of 1.8 percent for Castle Hill and 2.1 percent for Marsden Park, said Rooney.
The portfolio was marketed by JLL in conjunction with McVay Real Estate on behalf of LaSalle Funds Management Limited.
Home Hub Castle Hill features a total of 52,004 sqm built over two multi-level centres and includes parking for 1,490 cars on a combined site area of 59,820 sqm.
Tenants include The Good Guys, Nick Scali, JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Officeworks, Toy ‘R’ Us &amp; Babies ‘R’ Us, Domayne and Freedom, and 64 specialty retailers.
Home Hub Marsden Park is on 19,832.6 sqm, with parking for 451 cars and a site area of 39,900 sqm. It is securely leased with long-term tenure to JB Hi–Fi Home and The Good Guys and features 22 large format and 10 food-based retailers on ground and 7 tenancies on an upper level.
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$436 million sale of Home Hub Castle Hill and Marsden Park

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Redevelopment of the Maroochydore CBD on Queensland's Sunshine Coast is driving local commercial property sales.
Emily Pendleton from Ray White Commercial North Coast Central said Maroochydore is being fast tracked to become the business, community and employment hub of the Sunshine Coast.
"The new Maroochydore City Centre will be instrumental in building and strengthening the region, providing a mix of residential, commercial, retail, civic and community uses to develop a thriving and vibrant business district and city centre,” she said.
“Any property around the new Maroochydore City Centre is getting serious attention from both owner occupiers and investors.
“There is a real hype around the immediate precinct including Maud Street, Sugar Road and Norval Court, which is exciting to see."
She said the $390,000 sale of a tenanted commercial investment property at 13/12 Norval Court, Maroochydore, for a 7.0 per cent yield highlighted the impact of the new city centre.
“This 146 sqm property has a long-term tenant in Phoenix Yoga Studio and my colleague Tamara Thorogood and I sold it to a local investor after less than three weeks on the market,” she said.
“The Norval Ct property we sold is close to the SunCentral CBD rejuvenation project.“
Construction has commenced on the Maroochydore City Centre, slated to deliver 215,000 sqm of commercial and retail space and provide more than 30,000 new jobs.
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Maroochydore CBD redevelopment luring commercial investors

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An 88 square metre strata titled retail investment in the Maroochydore CBD has sold for $423,000 to a local investor.
The property at Unit 4, 31-33 Plaza Parade sold for a current net yield of 6.43 percent on passing income.
Will Carman and Peter Capps of Savills said the property sold within a week of its campaign starting via an offers to purchase campaign.
The property had previously sold in November 2016 for $385,000.
Capps said the owner deciding to put the space back on the market when other opportunities took priority.
“Also of great appeal to investors was the location of the property, on Plaza Parade, and the fact it now  provides easy access to the Sunshine Coast Motorway, north and south, and into the Maroochydore CBD via Maroochy Boulevard.”
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Maroochydore Sunshine Coast strata titled retail investment sold

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Investing in commercial property is alluring, especially when you see advertisements on websites or at auctions of properties that yield 6-8 percent or even more.
Especially at a time when yields on residential properties are hovering at 3-4 percent or lower.
But beware of the traps; with a potentially higher reward come greater risks which is usually in the form of higher vacancy rates.
Commercial property can usually be classified into retail, industrial or office. Each has its pros and cons, but no matter what type, some rules apply to all or most.
According to Angus Raine, executive chairman of the Raine &amp; Horne Group, commercial property is a natural investment 'stepping stone' from residential property and a great way to diversify one’s portfolio, create tax benefits and build wealth.
"It's a more sophisticated form of investing," he was cited as saying by the Australian Financial Review. 
"However like any asset class, there are risks.
"So aspiring investors should take the time to do plenty of research, seek advice from experts and understand the pros and cons."
The first step to investing in commercial property is to take stock of the risks.
First, finding a new lessee can take time. It’s no good buying a vacant office space at a bargain when you can’t find a tenant for months.
Once a tenant moves out, it can take months or even more than a year to find a new one. On the other hand, finding a tenant for an apartment you want to rent out is generally a matter of weeks.
If the sole tenant of your property has to close due to financial problems, it could mean tough times for you. 
If you want to avoid those traps, Fred Nucara, director at Melbourne-based agent, Beller Commercial, has some advice. 
Investors would do well to position their property differently in the market, he told Fairfax Media.
"You might offer the first month of every year after they renew rent-free or offer them $5000 to help them set up their business," he suggested.
He also suggested to ramp up the property’s presence on the internet so it appears high on searches. That way, one can get a good number of enquiries.
Putting up ads in publications that will attract suitable tenants, such as cafe premises in Epicure magazine or a medical facility in a medical journal. 
He has a word of advice for first-time commercial property investors who buy into a vacant property. 
"I would not recommend it to first-time investors," he adds.
"We advise our clients to get something that is leased, that has cash flow so you can get a sense of the temperament of the tenant over time and their ability to pay the rent.
"That way an investor can develop confidence and understanding about the sector."
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The top risks of investing in commercial property: Angus Raine

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St Leonards continues to experience office erosion as stock continues to be earmarked for residential conversion, according to Colliers International’s latest Metro Office report.
“In the last six months, St Leonard’s vacancy has increased from 8.5 percent to 10.5 percent in January 2017 as tenants relocate to other metro markets.
"As previously mentioned, Jacobs relocated from 100 Christie Street to North Sydney, adding a contraction of just over 7,000sqm, Flexirent downsized 4,100sqm and 2UE vacated 170 Pacific Highway handing back 1,094sqm of space.
"These tenant moves contributed to a total six month net absorption of -22,878sqm,” the report stated.
Despite vacancy increases there is a strong prospect of a stronger residential market Colliers says.
“18,489sqm was withdrawn in the six months to January 2017 with a further 30,000sqm due to come offline in 2017, 18,500sqm of which will be redeveloped into a mixed use precinct (88 Christie Street).
"The next supply cycle will commence in 2019 with Royal North Shore Hospital fully committing to a 36,000sqm office development as well as Mirvac’s 472 Pacific Highway (4,600sqm).
"Mooted schemes are Gore Hill Technology Park (46,000sqm) and 18-20 Atchison Street (2,300sqm).
"Despite the increase in vacancy, the prospect of a stronger residential market encroaching on existing buildings and development space saw net face rents increase 21.5 per cent and incentives fall two percentage points in the last 12 months, with positive net effective rental growth expected to continue over the remainder of 2017,” the report advised.
A 144 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-st+leonards-501981146">St Leonards</a> (above) has been listed for sale.
Similarly a 67 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-st+leonards-502235646">St Leonards</a> (below) has been listed for $425,000.
<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/2017/05/02/St%20Leonards-2.jpg" alt="">
A 96 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-st+leonards-502146674">51/6-8 Herbert Street</a>, St Leonards (below) was sold in April.
<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/2017/05/02/516-8%20Herbert%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a 4605 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-st+leonards-501551463">2 Chandos Street</a>, St Leonards (below) was sold in April.
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Office erosion in St Leonards continues: Colliers

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Moving into 2017, the Gold Coast commercial property has continued to reflect strong market conditions, say valuation firm Herron Todd White in their April report which also sees Gold Coast approaching the peak of market position. 
Recently released PCA data indicates the across market vacancy level at January 2017 was 12.2 percent. This is down from 14.3 percent in July 2016 and 13.2 percent in January 2016.
Continuing the trend over the past several years, we are unaware of any planned new office buildings for 2017 apart from some smaller developments in areas such as Ashmore Road, Benowa targeting the medical sector. On this basis, the vacancy level on the Gold Coast is anticipated to improve (reduce) further moving forward. 
Sale transactions to date in 2017 suggest continuing robust interest. An example of this is the now publicly reported sale of 183 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes for $11.8 million. This is a 32.5 percent increase on the previous sale in December 2014 at $8.9 million.
The property has been purchased by the Clarence Property Group, a long term participant in the Gold Coast commercial market and in particular the office sector over the past few years. This two-level building of 3,153 square metres is reportedly fully leased, although net income and yield have not been disclosed. The sale reflects $3,742 per square metre on lettable area. 
<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/2017/04/21/HTWGoldCoast.jpg" alt="">
At the other end of the spectrum is 19-21 Gardenia Grove, Burleigh Heads, which settled last month for $2.9 million. This is a converted squash centre in a beachside location providing 1,061 square metres of net lettable area. It is also fully leased, but shows a low WALE of two years. The sale reflects $2,733 per square metre and a passing yield of 7.94 percent. 
“We note there are several other commercial office buildings currently listed for sale which we anticipate when sold will demonstrate yields at or possibly 25 basis points lower than 2016.”
Of particular interest will be how the market place perceives the expansive Bundall Corporate Centre, which has an EOI campaign closing 23 March 2017. This property comprises two existing office building with 21,111 square metres of lettable area, but with a further 15,500 square metres of developable land that could provide an array of opportunities for further office space, retailing, residential apartments or combinations thereof. This is a large, commercial property ticket item for the Gold Coast, having sold in the past a couple of times pre-GFC at circa $100 million and then post-GFC at circa $60 million. 
In respect to the office rental sector, commercial agents are also reporting good conditions with reported uplift in enquiries, uplift in rental levels and stabilisation or reduction in the level of incentives. 
Typically, rental rates for A grade stock ranges between $450 and $500 per square metre gross plus car parking; B grade stock between $350 and $450 per square metre gross plus car parking, whilst C and D grade stock ranges between $225 and $300 per square metre plus car parking. Incentives would now be expected to represent circa 7 percent to 8 percent of lease term rental. 
The Gold Coast strata office market has also continued on its reasonably strong path into 2017, again buoyed by owner-occupiers taking advantage of the low interest rate environment. Value rates exhibited by good quality strata office space on the Gold Coast typically reflect between $3,500 and $4,500 per square metre inclusive of car parking and between $2,000 and $3,500 for secondary stock depending on size, location and physical attributes. These are similar levels to 2015, although the median rate in each category has probably increased circa 5 percent. 
“Moving through 2017, we would expect the buoyant conditions to be maintained on the back of sustained low interest rates and ongoing benefit of planned infrastructure associated with the Commonwealth Games in 2018.” 
“However, we do have reservations that the market is becoming over heated.” 
Further, global conditions, including a change of President in the US and the possibility of diplomatic tensions moving forward could have implications for the Australian property market overall, conclude HTW.
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Gold Coast office market robust: HTW 

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Retail giant Amazon’s entry into Sydney may not be all that smooth, as its huge operational requirements may be difficult to manage initially, at least.
Amazon’s value proposition combined with its need for immense space may make it difficult to find a suitable base within Sydney, says a new report from Colliers International.
The report studied Amazon’s footprint in other global markets to determine how the online retailer would make its mark on the Sydney industrial market.
The sheer volume required by Amazon, combined with the need to deliver produce within an extremely short time-frame, means that it may struggle to find a space that meets its needs within the inner-Sydney ring, it said. 
“Amazon’s value proposition lies in its ability to offer an extensive range of consumer products at low prices by providing a unique customers experience which is dependent on delivering goods with speed, elasticity and mobility,’ said Colliers International research manager, Sass J-Baleh.
To fulfil their value proposition, Amazon’s key activity boils down to its logistics and distribution process – it requires a sufficient supply chain management. This means Amazon’s key resource is its Transit Warehouses/ Fulfilment centres, which typically occupy 100,000 sqm of space.
The report found that Amazon’s Fulfilment Centres (FCs), which is where a large majority of the goods are packed and distributed, are typically 100,000 sqm, with a global average of 64,000 sqm.
The company also relies on Fresh Food Distribution Centres, Regional Sortation Centres, Delivery Stations and Prime Now Hubs which typically occupy an average of 40,000 sqm, 30,000 sqm, 10,000 sqm and 6,000 sqm respectively.
Amazon currently operates in 14 countries and has 393 active facilities with a combined facility space of 13 million sqm. 
The Colliers report draws parallels with Canada and certain other countries to identify how Amazon might operate in Australia. 
“Canada is a country with a population greater than that of Australia, and they have only established six facilities with the population distribution concentrated into a small number of cities,” J-Baleh said.
“We already know that Amazon has recently secured one of its purpose-built FCs at Eastern Creek within Sydney’s Outer West sub-market, that is around 100,000 sqm.”
“This is advantageous as it is adjacent to the Sydney Orbital Network, providing direct access to a large share of the NSW market.”
“However, with over 64 percent of the total NSW population currently concentrated within the Sydney Metropolitan, Amazon may struggle to find facilities which will allow them to adhere to their 1-2 hour delivery time within this area.”
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Amazon faces tough entrance to the Australian market

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The historic Grand Hotel Melbourne has been officially rebranded as a Quest property, as the group targets more business travellers. 
The 33 Spencer Street property offers business and leisure travellers 95 studio, one and two-bedroom apartment style accommodation options along with 4.5 star comforts.
The heritage-listed property was originally built in the 1880s as the Victorian Railways Administration offices, due to its proximity to Spencer Street and Flinders Street Stations.
The building in Melbourne’s CBD was acquired in the early 1990s and converted into a luxury hotel.
Quest Apartment Hotels group CEO Zed Sanjana said the hotel is a “great asset to the Quest network”.
He said the property strong appeals to Quest’s core target customer, the extended stay business traveller.
The Melbourne icon has been cleverly transformed, and caters to the accommodation needs of short or long stay business travellers, he added.
“The prime location on the corner of Spencer and Flinders Streets positions Quest Grand Hotel Melbourne very favourably for business travellers to Melbourne’s CBD.”
Beyond its majestic façade, the building offers top quality amenities, a unique spaciousness and an ambience of grandeur attributable to the Victorian era.
Guest facilities at Quest Grand Hotel Melbourne include an on-site restaurant and bar, valet parking, indoor swimming pool, spa, gym, outdoor BBQ and garden area, and a meeting room facility for up to 50 delegates.
Quest Grand Hotel Melbourne is Quest’s eighth property in Melbourne’s CBD and the 54th Quest property in Victoria.
The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Crown Entertainment Complex, Docklands and Melbourne’s legal and finance precincts are all close to the hotel.
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