<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]</p>

<p>Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]</p>


Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]</p>

<p><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.</p>

<p>"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.</p>

<p>WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.</p>

<p>"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]</p>


Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

<p>When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.</p>

<p>But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.</p>

<p><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></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p><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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.</p>

<p>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?</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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).</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

<p>To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:</p>

<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>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.</p>

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="252" data-start="225">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong data-end="413" data-start="389">Stamp Duty Benefits:</strong> Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.</p>

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Benefits</strong>: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.</p>

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="920" data-start="893">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong data-end="1162" data-start="1135">Stamp Duty Concessions:</strong> Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.</p>

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Concessions:</strong> Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.</p>

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="1617" data-start="1590">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.</p>

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Relief:</strong> Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.</p>

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant</strong>: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Exemption</strong>: 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.</p>

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Exemption</strong>: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>


Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

<p>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.</p>

<p>Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.</p>

<p>Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.</p>

<p>A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.</p>

<p>NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.</p>

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

<p><strong>Energy Efficiency:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Cost Savings:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Environmental Impact:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Improved Comfort: </strong>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.</p>

<p><strong>Market Value and Desirability:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Compliance with Building Codes:</strong> 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.</p>


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?

<p>Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.</p>

<p>Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

<p style="line-height: 1.38;">When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.</p>

<p style="line-height: 1.38;">Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.</p>

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

<p>Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.</p>

<p>It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.</p>

<p style="line-height: 1.38;"><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></p>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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!</p>

<p>Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:</p>

<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>

<p style="line-height:1.38">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.</p>


Ellen Walker

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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.<span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><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" /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span>​</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p>The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.</p>


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

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<p>GUEST OBSERVER</p>
<p>This week 1,667 capital city auctions were held, less than last week (1,831)  and also less than one year ago (2,603).</p>
<p>Auction volumes were substantially higher last year as there were only two weeks between the Easter long weekend and the ANZAC day weekend. Preliminary results show that 68.6 per cent of auctions were successful this week, marking the third consecutive week of auction clearance rates below the 70 per cent mark. This week’s result is higher than last week (67.1 percent), but much lower than one year ago when 78.9 percent of the capital city auctions held were successful.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/19/20160418-capital-city.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/19/20160418-capital-city.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Across Australia’s largest auction market of Melbourne 882 residential homes were taken under the hammer this week, with a preliminary clearance rate of 71.7 per cent, falling from 73.2 per cent last week (the strongest result since February) and lower than one year ago (79.5 per cent). While the clearance rate fell, auction volumes rose from 803 last week. The most auction activity for the city was held in the Inner region where 170 homes went to auction and 73.5 per cent of reported auctions were successful.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/19/20160418-melbourne.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/19/20160418-melbourne.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Sydney</strong> has recorded a preliminary clearance rate of 69.7 percent this week across 457 auctions, compared to a low of 67.1 percent last week and a substantial difference from 87.0 percent one year ago, which happened to be the 11th consecutive week for the city of clearance rates over 80 percent, and the city’s clearance rate remained above 80 percent until mid-July. This week’s top performing Sydney sub-region was the Eastern Suburbs with a clearance rate of 87.0 percent, followed by Sutherland (84.2 percent) and North Sydney and Hornsby (80.4 percent).</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/19/20160418-sydney.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/19/20160418-sydney.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The preliminary clearance rate across <strong>Brisbane</strong> was 53.5 per cent this week, up from 47.7 per cent and also higher than the 46.4 per cent last year. This week 145 Brisbane auctions were held, compared to 160 last week and 140 one year ago. With the two upcoming public holidays, it is expected that Brisbane’s auction market will be relatively quiet over the next two weeks. This week 47 Gold Coast auctions have been reported with 21 sales.</p>
<p><a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/20160418-brisbane.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-6654"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6654" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/20160418-brisbane.jpg" alt="20160418 brisbane" width="971" height="653"></a></p>
<p>Adelaide saw 99 auctions take place this week and based on the 75 results so far, the preliminary clearance rate was 66.7 per cent. Last week Adelaide’s clearance rate was 63.6 per cent, while one year ago it was higher, at 69.7 per cent.</p>
<p>The number of Perth auctions held this week was 30, down from 36 both last week and one year ago. Preliminary results show 28.6 per cent of Perth auctions cleared this week.</p>
<p>Preliminary results for Canberra show the clearance rate for this week sitting at 71.9 per cent, up from 61.9 per cent last week when 68 homes were taken to auction.</p>
<p>There were 9 Tasmanian auctions this week with 5 reported results and 4 sold.</p>
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smiller-vwPjRHTkST

Capital city clearance rate below 70 percent for three weeks running: CoreLogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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<p>A corner site in Melbourne's Prahran is up for sale by expressions of interest closing April 20 and is expected to fetch more than $9 million.</p>
<p>The 10-16 Cecil Place property is close to the popular retail and entertainment precinct of Chapel Street.</p>
<p>The 1,271 square metre site comprises two self-contained office buildings: 10 Cecil Place – a two-storey office building of 881 square meres with 20 car spaces, and 12-16 Cecil Place – another two-storey office building of 459 square metres with 11 car spaces.</p>
<p>The buildings are securely leased to four tenants at a combined net rental of nearly $365,000 per annum.</p>
<p>The property is zoned Commercial 1 and is being sold through Teska Carson agents Michael Taylor and Michael Ludski, along with Marshall White Project’s Leonard Teplin.</p>
<p>"The property presents a significant acquisition opportunity of the highest calibre in one of Melbourne’s most sought after suburbs, suitable for development in the short term or land banking given the significant improvements and further income potential," Taylor said.</p>
<p>There is a development scheme for 104 units in place. </p>
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Corner site in Melbourne's Prahran expects to net $9 million plus

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<p>Swedish hi-tech engineering firm Sandvik has agreed terms on a new five-year lease for an industrial facility at Mulgrave in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs.</p>
<p>Located in Gilda Court, the 520 square metre building includes 400 square metre of office space and 120 square metres of warehousing.</p>
<p>The deal was brokered by Savills' Daniel Kelly and Lynton Williams.</p>
<p>Sandvik, which will relocate from Dandenong, will pay circa $100,000 per annum net.  </p>
<p>Sandvik employs around 46,000 people worldwide and makes equipment for metal cutting, mining and construction.</p>
<p>The lessor was a Melbourne-based investor. </p>
<p> </p>
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Swedish engineering firm switches to Melbourne's Mulgrave

<html><body><div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
<p><span>Entrepreneur Mark Carnegie is looking at buying Ardent Leisure's marinas business a</span><span>s auctioneer McVay Real Estate works on the information memorandum's release.</span></p>
<p><span>The <em>Australian Financial Review's Street Talk</em> column revealed Carnegie's firm M.H. Carnegie &amp; Co is preparing its own search for an equity partner willing to team up on a bid.  </span></p>
<p><span>"We would be very interested in speaking to an international party working on this as we believe we are strategically well placed," Carnegie told <em>Street Talk</em>. </span></p>
<p><span>M.H Carnegie already owns Breakwater Marina in North Queensland.</span></p>
<p><span>Ardent's marina come with a $115 million book value unit. </span></p>
<p><span>Ardent's d'Albora Marinas business is the largest marina group in Australia with seven sites including three on Sydney harbour. </span></p>
<p><span>Private equity giant The Carlyle Group is one of the parties circling the theme park, marina, bowling centre and gym owner, Ardent Leisure. </span></p>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Mark Carnegie seeks Ardent's marinas 

<html><body>
<div>It looks increasingly as though 2016 is going to be a becalmed year for Sydney's property markets.<br><br>Some articles doing the rounds this week suggested that apartment prices had already fallen in Sydney, but as you would expect different market sectors and sub-regions have behaved somewhat differently.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Mainly these declines would relate to new stock or "off-the-plan" or high-rise apartment purchases, some of which in my opinion is quite over-priced and quite risky, and some outer suburban or secondary locations where auction clearance rates have tanked. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Residex released its April market update on Friday which showed that <em>median</em> apartment prices in Sydney had increased by +11.5 per cent over the year to March, to a fresh all-time high of $691,500.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Following a +2.4 per cent increase in March, the median unit price growth has all but overhauled median house price growth in the harbour city, which has slowed to +12.2 per cent over the year to March. <br><br>This need not be such a surprise - at this stage in the cycle the stamp duty on detached housing in desirable locations has become increasingly prohibitive, acting as a drag on price growth.  </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Sydney's median house price is now $1,042,500 which is +$271,500 higher than when the latest round of doomsday predictions were rolled out at the beginning of 2014. And this median price is also +$381,500 than in the middle of 2012 when some other crash predictions were being bantered around.<br><br>With the additional stamp duty burden ramping up by nearly $18,000 over the past four years, rational buyers will increasingly look towards properties they can add value to, or scale down their entry price accordingly. <br><br>While auction results are still throwing out some enormous results (for example, this <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-terrace-nsw-potts+point-115126003" target="_blank">Potts Point terrace</a> was resold for a thunderous $13 million this week, almost doubling the record price for a Sydney terraced house) it does look as though the wider market away from the inner suburbs has now slowed in accordance with APRA's wishes. </div>
<div>
<br>According to Residex medians, there was a continued steady growth in the year to March for Brisbane houses (+3.5 per cent) and Brisbane units (+4.2 per cent). <br><br>
</div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Economy more upbeat</span></strong></div>
<div> </div>
<div>There have been quite a few positive signs for the economy of late - an extraordinarily strong NAB business survey saw conditions at their equal highest level in 8 years, and the AIG Performance of Manufacturing Index gauge surging to its highest reading in 12 years. <br><br>Lately there has been a strong bounce in commodity prices, sending some of the oversold major resources companies on a serious bull run.<br><br>The March Labour Force figures showed that the national unemployment rate has kept ticking down to its lowest level in two-and-a-half years, and quite a bit sooner than had been expected. <br><br>More detailed employment figures due out on Thursday will confirm that Sydney's economy is rather enjoying its infrastructure and building boom. </div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/04/18/UE.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/04/18/UE.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>As for the much-feared "mining cliff", well that  has all but been and gone, meaning that resources construction will no longer be such a significant drag on the economy in about 12 to 18 months time.</div>
<div>
<br>The latest available data only runs to December 2015, but as we are now about three-and-a-half years beyond the peak estimates have shown that some three quarters of the decline may now be in the rear view mirror, while record residential construction activity has helped to offset the decline.<br><br>That said, Western Australia and the Northern Territory still evidently have quite a way to fall back yet.</div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/04/18/C1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/04/18/C1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>Good news, and futures markets are now less than convinced of the need for a further interest rate cut in this cycle.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Financial Stability Review (FSR)</span></strong></div>
<div> </div>
<div>In other news the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) released its April 2016 Financial Stability Review (FSR) on Friday. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The RBA noted that spreads on Australian banks' wholesale funding costs had increased a little over the past six months, partly due to one-off factors related to international regulation. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>That said, spreads have declined a bit of late as the outlook has brightened, and having successfully issued some $50 billion in bonds since the beginning of the year Australian banks are set to comfortably meet their funding requirements through this calendar year.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Despite the moderate increase in spreads, banks' long and short debt pricing spread to swap remains a world away from where it was in, say 2012, let alone from the unholy spike of 2008.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In any event Australian banks are now less exposed to wholesale funding risk because first deposit funding and now equity funding have been stepped up respectively.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>There has been very little impact on deposit rates. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/04/18/FUNDING.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<img src="/images/2016/04/18/FUNDING.jpg" alt=""><br><br>
</div>
<div>Non-performing asset ratios on domestic books are generally speaking in pretty good nick, having continued to improve in the latter half of 2015.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/04/18/FSR1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/04/18/FSR1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>For the majors non-performing loans are also in very good shape, although the resources regions and mining towns of Western Australia and Queensland are expected to cop some default action, an unfortunate occurrence which has been known about for some time. </div>
<br><div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/04/18/FSR2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/04/18/FSR2.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
</div>
<div>The RBA highlighted the potential for apartment oversupply and possible related settlement risks, while noting that there has been little evidence of the latter to date, and also little evidence of any meaningful slowdown in demand from China. <br><br>Despite the high levels of apartment construction, I'm coming around the view that with more than half of the dwelling stock effectively financed by offshore investors - overwhelmingly from China - such a ratio of apartments may never make it to the rental market that the actual impact on supply could yet prove to be a fizzer. <br><br><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">No stress?</span></strong><br><br>The RBA remains relatively unperturbed with household debt levels, for although gross household debt has increased so too have aggregated mortgage buffers (balances held in offsets and redraw facilities), up to an enormous 17 per cent of outstanding loan balances - that's the equivalent of more than 2.5 years of mortgage repayments at current interest rate levels.<br><br>The RBA reiterated that most household debt is held by the households that can afford to service it, with half of household debt held by the top quintile of income earners. Meanwhile, indicators of stress on overall loan portfolios remain low. <br><br>However, this review did acknowledge that the households without mortgage buffers are often those in the lower income brackets, which may present a market risk in time. <br><br>As such, housing markets in lower socio-demographic areas may be at greater risk if either interest rates or unemployment rates rise. <br><br>This certainly rings true in the case of Sydney where house prices in the west and at the city fringe have recorded particularly punchy price growth since 2012 - a dynamic which tends to mask any underlying household mortgage stress - but with auction results pointing to ongoing weakness, the fundamentals out west all look rather fragile.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<p><span><em>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>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>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>.</em></p>
</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

The becalmed market: Pete Wargent

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<p>The list of the most affordable capital city suburbs in each state and territory highlights the dramatic difference in the cost of housing between the most affordable and most expensive capital cities.</p>
<div>
<p>When we are talking about affordable prices for capital city housing, Hobart is the location of choice with property prices much lower there than across the mainland capital cities.</p>
<p>To highlight this we have looked at selling prices for the bottom decile of homes over the three months to January 2016.  A decile simply divides a group into ten equal parts.  What this means is if there were 20 sales over the three months and we lined the sales up from lowest to highest we would take the 2nd price as a representation of the most affordable segment of the market.</p>
<p>Over the three months to January 2016, the 10th percentile price of a house across the combined capital cities was $315,000 and the 10th percentile unit price was $255,000.  Over the same period, the 10th percentile house price across the combined regional markets was $175,000 compared to $180,000 for units.  This again highlights that housing tends to be much more affordable outside of the capital cities.</p>
<h3>10th percentile price of houses and units <br>3 months to January 2016</h3>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/15/2016-03-29--img1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/15/2016-03-29--img1.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><br>Hobart has the lowest 10th percentile house and unit prices at $205,000 and $167,000 respectively.  Darwin is the second most affordable for houses at $229,000 and for units Adelaide is in second place with a price of $222,000.  At the other end of the spectrum, the 10th percentile house price is highest in Sydney and Darwin (both $430,000) and the unit price is highest in Sydney at $360,000.</p>
<p>The table below highlights the five most affordable capital city suburbs for both houses and units in each state.  The data is based on median values and we have only included suburbs that had at least 10 sales over the 12 months to January 2016.</p>
<h3>Suburbs with most affordable median values, January 2016</h3>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/15/2016-03-29--img2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/15/2016-03-29--img2.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><br>The much more affordable nature of Hobart housing is evident when you look at the most affordable lists for each city, particularly for houses.  The five most affordable suburbs for houses in Hobart are all more affordable than the most affordable suburbs in each other capital city.  The data also highlights that housing costs in Sydney, Darwin and Canberra tend to be more expensive than the remaining capital cities.</p>
<p>For units, Adelaide suburbs actually have the most affordable suburbs and certain suburbs in Brisbane are also cheaper than those in Hobart where medium to high density development is less common.  On the other hand, unit values in the most affordable Darwin and Canberra suburbs are much higher than elsewhere.</p>
<p>The data shows that affordable housing options are available in most capital cities however, they tend to be located on the outskirts of the capital cities.  Of course Hobart, Adelaide and Brisbane tend to have much more affordable housing options relative to the other capital cities.  Meanwhile, regional markets often offer up even more affordable housing alternatives.</p>
<p> <em>Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic RP Data. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.</em></p>
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Hobart housing much more affordable than other capital cites

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<p><span>The list of the most exclusive suburbs in each state reiterates just how much more expensive real estate is in Sydney relative to the rest of the country.</span></p>
<p><span>Sydney is by far and away the nation’s most expensive housing market. To put this into some perspective we have looked at the top decile of selling prices over the three months to January 2016. A decile simply divides a group into ten equal parts. What this means is if there were 20 sales over the three months and we lined the sales up from lowest to highest we would take the 18th price as a representation of the most expensive segment of the market.</span></p>
<p><span>Over the three months to January 2016, the 90th percentile price of a house in the city was $1.5 million and the 90th percentile unit price was $980,000.  Over the same period, the two capital cities with the next highest 90th percentile house price was Melbourne at a still high but much lower $1,050,000.  This highlights just how much more expensive housing is in Sydney and to a lesser degree Melbourne is relative to other capital cities.  As an example the next highest 90th percentile price is Perth at $870,000.</span></p>
<div>
<h3>90th percentile price of houses and units 3 months to January 2016</h3>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/15/2016-03-21--img1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/15/2016-03-21--img1.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>There is also a large difference between the cost of premium housing in capital cities and non-capital cities.  The 90th percentile house price across the combined capital cities is $1,010,000 compared to $675,000 in combined regional markets.  Similarly, 90th percentile unit prices are $830,000 in the combined capital cities compared to $600,000 outside of the capitals.  This data points to the fact that non-capital city areas are the great un-tapped resource for more affordable housing.  Of course employment opportunities in these areas are the main factor holding back the regional areas of the country.</p>
<p>The table below highlights the five most expensive suburbs for both houses and units in each state.  The data is based on median values and we have only included suburbs that had at least 10 sales over the 12 months to January 2016.<br><br></p>
<h3>Suburbs with most expensive median values, January 2016</h3>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/15/2016-03-21--img2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/15/2016-03-21--img2.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The Sydney premium becomes very evident when we look at the most expensive suburbs in each state based on median values.  The data shows the 5 most expensive suburbs for houses in NSW (all of which are in Sydney) all have a median value of more than $4 million.  In comparison, the most expensive suburbs for houses in Vic and WA are more than $3 million, in SA it is more than $2 million, in Qld, NT and ACT it is more than $1 million and in Tas it is less than $850,000.</p>
<p>Similarly for units, all of the 5 most expensive suburbs in NSW (Sydney) have a median values of more than $1 million.  Tennyson in Brisbane is the only other suburb outside of Sydney with a median unit value of more than $1 million.</p>
<p>There is a large premium for housing in our largest city.  Of course the city also has an abundance of waterfront homes which contributes to the higher overall cost of housing.  While employment opportunities remain significant in Sydney and employers limit the opportunities for workers to work remotely we would expect that a substantial Sydney premium will remain.  Elsewhere housing is generally much more affordable but of course not everyone has a choice when it comes to potentially leaving Sydney and heading to another area of the country where housing is cheaper.</p>
<p><em>Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic RP Data. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.</em></p>
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Sydney’s premium suburbs are much more expensive than anywhere else: Cameron Kusher

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<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Housing finance data for January 2016 shows that the value of housing finance commitments was recorded at $31.9 billion over the month. </span></p>
<p>Based on this figure, mortgage lending fell by -3.4 percent over the month.  Even though the data is seasonally adjusted, we often see falls in mortgage lending over January so perhaps we need not read too much into the fall, however, this is the largest January fall in lending since 2011.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/15/Chart-1-1-580x213.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/15/Chart-1-1-580x213.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Looking at the two major components of mortgage lending: owner occupier and investors both have recorded a fall over the month. In January there was $20.5 billion worth of finance commitments to owner occupiers and $11.4 billion in commitments to investors. The value of owner occupier commitments fell by -4.3 percent over the month but was 15.9 percent higher year-on-year.</p>
<p>Investor commitments fell by -1.6 percent in January and were -14.8 percent lower year-on-year. With investor demand having slowed over recent months, they now account for 35.6 percent of all mortgage commitments which is virtually right on its decade average after peaking at 43.3 percent of all housing finance commitments in May of last year.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/15/Chart-21-580x210.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/15/Chart-21-580x210.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Of the $20.5 billion in commitments to owner occupiers in January, $1.9 billion was for construction of dwellings, $1.2 billion was for purchase of new dwellings, $7.2 billion was for refinancing of established dwellings and $10.2 billion was for the purchase of other established dwellings.  Construction of dwellings was the only segment of lending to rise over the month (+0.7 percent) with falls in value of lending for purchase of new dwellings (-5.2 percent), refinancing established dwellings (-2.3 percent) and purchase of other established dwellings (-6.4 percent). </p>
<p>Despite monthly falls, year-on-year all segments have seen an increase in lending with construction of new dwellings rising 6.1 percent, purchase of new dwellings up 35.6 percent, refinances up 36.0 percent and purchase of other established dwellings having increased by 4.8 percent.  Although lending is up over the past year, there is a clear downwards trend in owner occupier lending, particularly for established dwellings, over recent months.  It will important to monitor whether this trend persists in coming months as it could point to slowing value growth.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/15/Chart-3-1-580x213.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/15/Chart-3-1-580x213.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Following intervention in the market by the regulator, we have seen a sharp slowdown in lending to the investment segment over the past 8 months.  As earlier mentioned, investors accounted for 43.3% of all housing finance commitments in May of last year with their proportion falling to 35.6% in January 2016.  Looking at the two components, in January 2016 there were $899 million worth of commitments for new construction and $10.5 billion worth of commitments for established housing stock. </p>
<p>Over the month, the value of commitments fell by -4.2% for new construction and by -1.4% for established housing stock.  Year-on-year the value of lending is 3.2% higher for new construction but -16.0% lower for established stock.  Much like the owner occupier chart, it shows that demand for established stock has eased and is trending lower, albeit at a slower pace.  In fact, the value of commitments for established investment stock is at its lowest level since April 2014.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/04/15/Chart-4-1-580x215.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/04/15/Chart-4-1-580x215.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The CoreLogic Mortgage Index which is published weekly and tracks mortgage activity across our proprietary platforms indicates that January was a weak month for housing finance commitments.  We would expect that housing finance commitments will rise in February and so far March also points to increasing demand.  However, mortgage demand remains lower than it was at the end of last year and lower than it was a year ago.  While housing finance commitments should increase from their January levels it is unlikely that demand will start to grow as strongly as it was in the early part of last year or late in 2015.</p>
<p>The constraints on investment lending have been extremely effective and have resulted in a swift and significant pull-back in demand, in fact the value of investment housing finance commitments in January was -20.0% lower than its April 2015 peak.  Although the CoreLogic Mortgage Index points to a rebound in demand over the coming months, we expect that growth in housing finance commitments will remain more subdued than what we saw over recent years. </p>
<p>Of course, the direction of housing finance will ultimately be determined by housing demand.  After demand weakened over the second half of 2015 we have seen stronger demand early in 2016 with much stronger auction clearance rates falling property listings in a number of cities and a rise in property transactions.</p>
<p><em>Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic RP Data. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.</em></p>
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Mortgage demand shrinks in January, will it continue throughout 2016? Cameron Kusher

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<p><span>A mixed-use property with retail and medical space in the Sunshine Coast has come to the market.</span></p>
<p><span>Pulse Oceanside, developed by Evans Long, offers ground floor retail and first floor medical suites in a location opposite the proposed entrance of the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. The combined space is 1,376 sqm.</span></p>
<p><span>CBRE’s Michael Hedger, Joe Tynan, Millan Narsey, Sam Grasso and Ryan Parry will be negotiating the sales of the properties, which will be offered individually to suit passive investors and self-managed super funds looking for security and strong growth.</span></p>
<p><span>The suites will be offered to the market via an expressions of interest campaign ending this month, with the sales expected to have a combined value of $15 million.</span></p>
<p><span>Tynan said the immediate precinct is undergoing a major health care infrastructure development, valued at more than $5 billion, which will create 12,000 new jobs and drive further growth in the area – underpinning the retail market.</span></p>
<p><span>“Significant buyer interest is expected from both national and international groups, particularly as buyers are more actively targeting the Queensland market to benefit from more attractive yields than those offered in Sydney and Melbourne,” added Hedger.</span></p>
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Retail and medical spaces for sale in Sunshine Coast

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<p>The site of Katoomba restaurant, Pins on Lurline, and its Federation home and guest house, have been bought by a young family for an undisclosed sum.</p>
<p>The 132 Lurline Street property, built in 1898 by local businessman H. A. Bundy, was sold through an expression of interest campaign which closed in March.</p>
<p>The deal was brokered by Gunning Real Estate sales agent Tom Speakman on behalf of Blue Mountains restaurateurs Simon and Keiko Kjelgaard, who purchased the property in 2012. </p>
<p>“They are very pleased with the outcome and are excited to move forward with their plans to move to Japan after more than 20 years operating the Pins brand in the Blue Mountains and four years on Lurline Street,” Speakman said.</p>
<p>“The new owner will be running the restaurant themselves and renting out the guest house as a business. They are looking for a change of pace and will relocate from the Sydney CBD. It is an exciting adventure for them as they have a young family and no restaurant experience."</p>
<p>The restaurant seats 60 people. The property has a self-contained garden holiday cottage, Keiko’s Nest as well as a private residence with three bedrooms, Speakman said.</p>
<p>The original house was designed to be built ‘out in the bush’ and the owners operated a small tearoom in the hustle and bustle of Katoomba main street, its website says. </p>
<p>Pins, formerly known as Pins And Noodles, originated in Katoomba Street some 20 years ago and moved to Leura village before finally coming to rest in Lurline Street, hence the new name, ‘Pins On Lurline’.</p>
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