Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.

For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.

Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.

"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;

Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.

Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."

The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.

"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

What does it really mean for a building to be 'green'?

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

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

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

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

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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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Sydney’s outer west is seeing a wave of speculative development in industrial property as tenant demand outstrips supply and A-grade vacancy shrinks, according to an analysis by commercial real estate firm CBRE.
CBRE’s Peter Blade said demand for new industrial space across the outer west market was at a record high, and upward pressure on rental rates would continue.
As vacancy levels for A-grade industrial stock in the area dip below 1%, the demand-supply imbalance is driving upward pressure on rents.
“In the outer west, we are continuing to see strong levels of demand from third party logistics (3PL) providers, which have multiple existing contracts coming up for tender and renewal,” Blade said. 
“Meanwhile, we are also seeing a number of corporate occupiers looking for greater efficiencies within their supply chain in a bid to remain price competitive with their customer base.” 
This means they are either consolidating multiple sites into a single, bigger distribution facility or by outsourcing storage and distribution operations to a 3PL provider.”
According to CBRE, pre-leases averaged $104.50 per square metre, while speculative developed buildings averaged $115 per square metre across all industrial leasing transactions undertaken in Western Sydney from 2013 – 2016,
“As we continue to see demand outstrip supply of new industrial properties in the outer west, we expect to see pressure remain on the rental rates PSM and an easing of incentives,” Blade explained. 
Evidencing the tenant demand, Blackmores recently inked a new lease on a 17,000 sqm facility at 647 Great Western Highway in Eastern Creek. The supplement specialist has committed to a five-year term for an annual rental of $122.50 per square metre. 
Meanwhile, GML has signed a 10-year lease on a 5,345 sqm property at Greystanes from DEXUS, to accommodate its Western Sydney operations. The annual rental for the property at E4 Quarry is $124 per square metre.
YES Shop has committed to a 4,250 sqm property at 1-5 Interchange Drive in Eastern Creek. The Goodman property was negotiated for an annual rental of $123 per square metre over five years. 
CBRE’s Greg Pike said to meet rising demand for new industrial property, there was currently 120,000 sqm of speculative development under construction from owners including Goodman, DEXUS, Frasers, Stockland, Logos, Charter Hall and GPT.
While there had been a lot of speculation that the demand-supply imbalance was a flow on effect of the 2015 ANZAC day hail storms, more factors were at play, added Blade. 
Constraints in existing building stock (5,000 sqm plus), limited land supply across the Western Sydney market and the continued pressure occupiers are facing in the central west and South Sydney markets are some of those factors, he said. 
“This is stemming from  the redevelopment of traditional core industrial markets for either government infrastructure expansion projects or redevelopment and conversions,” Blade said. 
“We don’t expect to see this trend ending any time soon, and as result, those owners speculatively developing are the major beneficiaries. Speculatively developed sheds are on average achieving rental premiums of between 8% and 10% for the same, if not less, incentive then those who wait to secure pre-commitments.” 
A significant pipeline of stock is expected to enter the market in the next six months, mainly in the suburbs of Eastern Creek, Erskine Park and Greystanes, added Pike.
 
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Tenant demand pushes industrial vacancy to below 1% in Sydney’s outer west: CBRE

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Melbourne businessman Max Twigg has listed one of Australia's most iconic pubs, the Byron Bay Beach hotel.
It comes with market expectations of between $75 million and $80 million.
Mr Twigg, who made his money in waste management, bought the hotel in mid-2007 from its developer, John Cornell.
Mr Twigg paid $44 million for the pub's land component in 2007 with the total business purchase price taking the outlay closer to $65 million.
Daniel Dragicevich of CBRE Hotels and Tony Bargwanna and Jared Hodge of Ray White Hotels have the 4585 sqm listing.
The hotel is leased to Melbourne pub industry identity John van Haandel until mid-2017 with a further two, 10-year lease options and currently brings in annual income of around $4.2 million. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Byron Bay Beach Hotel listed

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<h3> </h3>
<div id="post-body-3832523868372190237" class="post-body entry-content">
<div>
With the future of Whyalla's steelworks remaining up in the air, the property market appears to be at risk of imploding.
With vacancy rates above 20 percent and rising, median asking rents appear to be dropping at a quite alarming pace. 
Asking rents down by about 30 to 50 percent over the last three years, with the pace of the decline having accelerated over the past year, and more so over the last quarter.
<a href="/images/2016/06/14/WHYALLA.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
</div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/06/14/WHYALLA.jpg" alt=""></div>
 <div>Source: SQM Research</div>
 <div>This can be a pervasive risk for towns that are so heavily reliant upon one or two industries or firms for employment and for the local economy to thrive. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The administrator's call for government assistance to support the Arrium steelworks was rejected by Prime Minister Turnbull.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The Labor state government has pledged support in the form of a $50 million funding facility for the prospective new owner of Arrium - were such a deal to be found. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. 
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
</div>
</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

The Arrium collapse is not pretty for Whyalla property investors: Pete Wargent 

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GUEST OBSERVER
The ongoing diversity in the housing market highlights the different growth drivers that are evident from region to region.
The economies of Sydney and Melbourne remain relatively sheltered from the downturn in the resources sector and have benefited from a very healthy services sector and positive population inflows while the mining states and territories are experiencing softer economic conditions and a sharp wind down in population growth, particularly from overseas migration.
The annual expansion in investor related housing credit has now dropped to a pace that is much lower than APRA’s mandated 10 percent growth per annum, while credit growth for owner occupiers is expanding.
<a href="/images/2016/06/09/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-10%20at%208.33.17%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/06/09/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-10%20at%208.33.17%20AM.png" alt="">
With many banks now placing a premium on investment mortgage interest rates and also increasing mortgage rates and serviceability limits on all mortgages we have seen investment housing demand slow however, there has been a slight up-tick in demand from this segment over recent months.
It’s important to note, however, that lenders have been reclassifying existing mortgages from investment purposes to owner occupation, which is likely to be having an impact on the figures. Some lenders have recently relaxed previous restrictions on investors which could result in a rebound in demand from this segment over coming months.
<a href="/images/2016/06/09/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-10%20at%208.39.33%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/06/09/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-10%20at%208.39.33%20AM.png" alt="">
The cumulative effect of tighter lending conditions, more expensive mortgage rates for investors and lower yields, as well as natural affordability constraints and higher levels of new housing supply, is likely to continue to impact the Sydney housing market resulting in a further slowdown over the year.
It is also expected that as the year progresses the rate of home value growth in Melbourne will also slow however, the slowdown is likely to be more moderate than the slowing in Sydney, at least during 2016. South-East Queensland looks set to see further increases in housing demand and potentially stronger value growth throughout the year.
Hobart and Canberra also appear better set for value growth over 2016 due to improving housing and economic conditions and relatively more affordable housing compared to Sydney and Melbourne. Adelaide is likely to show only moderate rates of value growth this year. In the meantime, we anticipate that values will continue to fall in trend terms throughout 2016 in Perth and Darwin.
<a href="/images/2016/06/09/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-10%20at%208.42.17%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/06/09/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-10%20at%208.42.17%20AM.png" alt="">
 
Tim Lawless is head of the CoreLogic research and analytics team and can be contacted <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/author/timlawless/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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tlawless-5VLUrbAk9s

Upturn on slowing investment housing demand: Tim Lawless

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Despite the recent slowdown, housing finance data highlights that investor activity in the housing market is starting to rise again and when you look at total returns from housing it’s no surprise.
<div>
The CoreLogic RP Data Accumulation Index which has been published since June 2009 highlights the total returns from residential property.  The total returns include both the increase in values as well as gross rental returns.  
The first chart shows the annual change in the total returns (accumulation) index over time. While combined capital city home values recorded longer and deeper falls during 2011-12, total returns were negative for only a short period of time thanks to the uplift from rental yields. More recently you can see that the annual change in total returns across the combined capital cities has remained quite strong.
<h3>Combined capital city annual changes in total returns for houses and units</h3>
<a href="/images/2016/06/09/2016-06-06--img1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/06/09/2016-06-06--img1.jpg" alt="">
 Over the 12 months to May 2016, combined capital city home values have increased by 10.0 percent while total returns have been recorded at a higher 13.9 percent. Looking at the individual capital cities, all cities except for Perth have recorded positive total returns over the past year. Sydney and Melbourne which have been the most active investment markets have seen the highest total returns at 16.9 percent and 17.5 percent respectively over the past twelve months. It should be noted that gross rental returns in both of these cities are now at record lows highlighting that the majority of these returns have come via an increase in home values.
<h3>Annual change in capital city total returns, 12 months to May 2016</h3>
<a href="/images/2016/06/09/2016-06-06--img2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/06/09/2016-06-06--img2.jpg" alt="">
The third chart highlights the total returns over the past five years across all capital cities. Again, Sydney in particular, has seen far superior total returns compared to all other capital cities. 
Melbourne has also experienced relatively strong total returns over the past five years. 
Again this highlights why these two cities in particular have remained so popular with investors. In all other capital cities returns from residential property have been positive.  In many of these cities the total returns have been driven more so by the rental returns rather than the capital growth which has been the key driver in Sydney and Melbourne.
<h3>5 year total change in total returns, to May 2016</h3>
<a href="/images/2016/06/09/2016-06-06--img3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/06/09/2016-06-06--img3.jpg" alt="">
Despite the recent rebound in value growth, the mature capital growth cycle and record low rental returns in Sydney and Melbourne, total returns are unlikely to be as strong in these cities over the coming years. A more balanced investment approach which focusses on moderate capital growth and relatively strong rental returns is likely to be a superior housing investment profile over the coming years. 
This data also highlights why housing investment has been so popular. In a low interest rate and subsequently low return environment housing has, over recent years, offered attractive returns. Whether this continues to be the case remains to be seen.
Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic RP Data. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.
</div>
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Total property returns show why housing investment remains so popular: CoreLogic

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On Wednesday night I watched finance commentator Alan Kohler on ABC TV puzzling over the apparent contradiction of sharply-falling loans to investors and rising prices in the major cities.
His basic message was: it doesn’t make sense and it can’t continue. 
His basis problem was: it didn’t occur to him that some of the data he was presenting might be rubbish.
He shares this problem with commentators, economists and journalists right across Australia. No one ever questions the real estate data that’s pumped out by publicity-addicted research companies – not even when it’s patently absurd and clearly wrong.
We had the situation recently where one of big research firms published figures showing that house prices fell in six of the eight capital cities in the March Quarter. That was treated as gospel and interpreted as evidence that the alleged boom was over.
Around the same time another of the big numbers companies published figures claiming that house prices rose in six of the eight capital cities in the March Quarter. That result was reported as truth as well, with no one (apart from me, it seems) noticing that the two sets of figures totally contradicted one another and that two conflicting messages were being sent to the public. 
One source said Adelaide was leading the nation on price growth while another said its prices were falling at the fastest rate since 2012.
So back to Kohler who is very good at making sense of share-market events and economic data, but not so bright when it comes to real estate. He displayed a graph suggesting loans to investors have dived. He attributed this to the crackdown by APRA and the reaction of major lenders.
That was starkly at odds with reports in media only days earlier, claiming that “investors have begun flooding back into the market”. Newspapers reported that investors were 47.6% of all new mortgage commitments in March, the highest proportion since August 2015. This was attributed to “some lenders reversing the tighter lending requirements that were previously in place”. 
So Kohler’s graph told quite the opposite story to the figures published elsewhere. And he made the incorrect assumption – the Labor Party is making the same mistake with its negative gearing policy – that price rises are caused exclusively by investors.
His next problem - his confusion over prices rising so much against a background of apparently plummeting investor lending – was based on his blind acceptance of the May price growth figures from CoreLogic.
Like so many journalists and commentators, he fell into the trap of (a) accepting published figures as unchallengeable and (b) placing big emphasis on month-to-month movements. He’s been around long enough to know better. 
Much of the data purporting to depict monthly changes in prices in our major cities is worthless. Indeed, it’s worst than worthless, because it’s misleading and causes confusion for consumers. 
The CoreLogic figures for May would have us believe that the apartment prices rose 8.4 percent in Hobart. Seriously? Hobart units have added 8.4 percent in value in a single month? I visited Hobart just a week ago and there is nothing happening in that market to justify that figure, nor the one that says Hobart unit prices have risen almost 19 percent in the past 12 months. These figures are made of an artificial elastomer synthesized from petroleum byproducts (they’re rubbery).
The same research source claims that Darwin apartments prices fell 10 percent in the month of May; that Canberra apartment prices fell 6 percent; that Perth prices fell 6.3 percent; and that Sydney house prices rose 3.6 percent. All those dramatic movements in property values in a single month – are they believable? I would suggest not. 
Everyone reporting these numbers has expressed breathless amazement, but it hasn’t occurred to anyone that maybe the figures are a tad sus – or that short-term movements in median prices or value indexes are essentially irrelevant because a month is too short a time frame to deliver a meaningful pattern.
If you examine month-to-month movements in anything – retail spending, building approvals, the jobs market, you name it – you’ll find the numbers are quite erratic. Often they’re just statistical aberrations, but economists will be lining up to attribute great significance to them. 
Only the long-term trend matters and only that should be reported - and then only with care, because you can be sure that the numbers you’re recording today will be contradicted by another set from other source tomorrow.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a>
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Some data depicting monthly residential price changes is worthless: Terry Ryder

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Sydney publican Peter Calligeros has added The Trinity Bar in Surry Hills to his hotel group.
Calligeros, whose hotel group also owns North Sydney pubs the Rag &amp; Famish, Alberts Bar and the Mount Street Terrace Hotel, paid $8.5 million for the Crown St pub.
It was offered for sale publicly for the first time in 20 years through CBRE by vendor Ray Reilly.
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Trinity Bar, Surry Hills sells at $8.5 million

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Raine &amp; Horne Commercial is predicting strong self-managed super fund (SMSF) demand will drive industrial and retail sales markets in Brisbane.
Principal Trent Bruce said that the demand from SMSFs are ten-fold stronger than supply.
“There’s a lack of quality secure industrial and retail property investment opportunities," he said.
“Such is the level of demand, we’ve been taking securely leased investments priced between $2m-$5m to market, and they’re attracting 70-100 enquiries during the course of the sales campaign. 
“Depending on the tenant, they’re selling for yields of between 5.5% and 7.5%.”
To illustrate the strength of the industrial market in Brisbane, Raine &amp; Horne Commercial Brisbane North sold a high quality industrial office/warehouse facility totalling 1,551sqm on a 2,030sqm allotment at 134 Delta Street, Geebung for a yield of 6.97%. 
“Historically this facility would have realised a yield closer to 8%, and the tighter yield has resulted from a sale price approximately $200,000 higher than the owner expected,” said Mr Bruce. 
“Many clients have taken advantage of the “perfect storm” conditions of historically low interest rates and a lack of available options in the retail and industrial sectors already this year, with many sales completed at record levels.”
While the strong industrial and retail sales are here to stay for the foreseeable future, the office sales market will remain in a state of oversupply. 
“Therefore we’re predicting the office sales market will be the toughest of Brisbane’s commercial sectors in the second half of the year,” said Mr Bruce.
“That said, the office leasing market is stable thanks to owner incentives, with many savvy landlords keenly negotiating with existing tenants to avoid vacancy.”
Across town, Joseph Grasso, Co-Principal of Raine &amp; Horne Commercial Brisbane Southside, said the incentive rates for office space are running at a very rigorous 40% in some cases.
“There’s been an oversupply of office space ever since the state government decided to consolidate a number of departments a few years back, while the slowing mining sector continues to be a factor,” said Mr Grasso. 
Opportunities for small business growth
A surfeit of office space, however, creates opportunities for tenants or home-based businesses to upgrade into their own office space, according to Mr Grasso. 
“Historically low interest rates are making it cheaper to buy commercial office space than to lease it, and now is a great time for smaller businesses to take the plunge,” he said.
On the industrial commercial property front, Mr Grasso said business is booming in southern Brisbane, with Raine &amp; Horne Commercial Brisbane Southside completing 32 transactions in May. 
“This includes small to medium industrial leasing, while prime industrial investment opportunities are still sought after,” said Mr Grasso.
“That said, there’s still some caution in the air as a consequence of the long election campaign.
“Nevertheless, investors are chasing industrial assets that tick all the boxes. However, if they have a few hairs or whiskers on them, they won’t move as fast, especially if an owner’s expectations aren’t realistic.”
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Raine & Horne see strong Brisbane industrial investment from SMSF

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More than 145,000 square metres of speculative industrial development greater than 5000 sqm is underway across Melbourne’s industrial markets, according to Savills.
Savills’ Victorian research manager, Monica Mondkar, said another 400,000 plus square metres is in the planning stages and likely to be driven by pre-commitment activity. 
"An additional of 93,715 square metres of warehousing space was currently in early planning stages in the north, and another 318,973 square metres - all at Melbourne Airport Business Park precinct - in the north, however the majority was expected to commence construction based on pre-commitment activity," she said.
"The figures include 27,000 square metres of speculative construction scheduled for completion within next 12 months in Melbourne’s western region, 58,485 square metres in the northern region and more than 60,000 square metres in the south-east.
"The figures did not include the conceivably greater number of projects under 5000 square metres and are a modest estimate based on planning applications for industrial development including warehouses, distribution centres and cold storage facilities.
 "Some 871,836 square metres of industrial space was reported leased in the 12 months to March in Victoria - up a healthy 36 percent on the five year average figure of 641,328 square metres – with pre-commitments accounting for a significant 309,691 square metres."  
Savills’ Industrial Director, Michael Green said the demand and the relative scarcity of development sites was putting upwards pressure on values for smaller allotments with prices on some estates in the north and south-east at $300 plus a square metre.
"Demand for lots in the northern region had left only eight lots available at McMullin Group’s Northpoint Enterprise Park," he said.
"Genesis Developments had sold out a speculative 11 unit development and was now in the process of building another high-end speculative 20 unit development next door on the back of those sales, while at MAB’s Alliance Business Park nearby, six lots were sold or under offer in the last stage of that development.
"In the south-east a private Melbourne based developer has purchased the last three vacant parcels of industrial land totaling 7000 square metres at Hallam Central Business Park for just over $2 million with plans for speculative development, while in the west 13 development sites totaling 12.8 hectares at Goodman’s Westside Industrial Estate, also earmarked for speculative development, sold for more than $20 million over just four weeks in January and February."
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Melbourne industrial market driving construction-ready demand: Savills

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A parcel of fully leased freestanding buildings with duel frontage including the prestigious Forest Road in Hurstville is up for sale.
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-hurstville-501968474" target="_blank">The commercial buildings</a> go to auction June 17 through Gunning Real Estate who expect a passive investor to have the winning bid.
The properties including international hotpot franchise Simmer Huang Hurstville, Eden Espresso Bar, gift shop EI Goods and Tongzhou Yoga studio.
Gunning associate director James McKenny said the 432.9 sqm site which has a combined building area of circa 577 sqm is perfectly located.
“It is a trophy location and ticks all the boxes with its position close to key infrastructure and strong customer foot traffic,” he said.
 
“Forest Road buildings are prized assets and rarely change hands.
He also said that it is a perfect deal for an investor.
"With an excellent mix of established tenants, coupled with its excellent position and potential this is the ideal investment opportunity."
“Investors can benefit in the short term from a secure income stream from the established tenants with an average weighted lease expiry of three years.
“With interest rates at record lows and development in strategic centers continuing to boom this will see the property continue to experience strong future growth in rents and capital values."
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Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

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