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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There were some 90 plus proposed changes to strata laws announced by the NSW Government Fair Trading Minister Victor Dominello​ last week that will affect how strata operates for owner occupiers, landlords and tenants.
It is the first major reform of strata laws since the Strata Titles Act was made in 1973. 
NSW has around 75,000 strata schemes worth $350 billion in assets. 
The draft Strata Schemes Development Bill 2015 and Strata Schemes Management Bill 2015 have been released for public consultation.
Here are what Property Observer senses are the key reforms. 
<h3>OVER CROWDED APARTMENTS</h3>
The reform will allow owners' corporations to create bylaws limiting the number of adults who can actually live in an apartment with fines for over-crowding to be raised to $5500 for the first offence and $11,000 on the second offence. The reforms allow owners corporations to make a by-law limiting the number of people who can reside in a lot (but schemes must still allow no fewer than two adults per bedroom), so that strata schemes are able to better manage overcrowding. Schemes wanting to impose such a limit could introduce a by-law by passing a special resolution. Larger families would not be discriminated against because the by-law would not apply to children and an overcrowding by-law cannot be inconsistent with the planning approval for the building.
<h3>COMPULSORY SALES AND DEMOLITION </h3>
The reform will allow 75 per cent of residents of older buildings to agree to their sale to a developer for redevelopment, regardless of the wishes of the 25% minority. Currently there is a requirement of a 100 per cent vote in favour of abandoning a strata scheme. The new process will apply only to existing schemes if the owners corporation agrees to opt in. If the majority of owners (50% or more) don’t support the decision, no further action can be taken.
<h3>RENOVATION</h3>
The reform will create a three-tier regime that allows certain minor work to be done without permission, some significant renovations to be carried out just with a simple majority vote of the owners' corporation and then for major renovations the need for special resolutions, bylaws and restrictions. The reforms aim to provide clearer, common-sense approvals for owner renovations. They would waive restrictions for minor, cosmetic changes to lots such as inserting a picture hook. Renovations with a lasting impact, such as installing floorboards, would still require approval but only a general resolution (50% of the vote). Renovations like those that affect the structure or external appearance of the building would still require a special resolution (75% of the vote).
<h3>PROXY FARMING FOR MEETING VOTES</h3>
The reform sees a cap on number of proxies held by owners in larger buildings with a limit of 20 per cent of the vote or five votes, whichever is less.
<h3>ILLEGAL PARKING</h3>
The reform will allow owners' corporations and local councils to let council parking inspectors patrol strata car parks and issue fines to people who have parked where they shouldn't. As part of proposed changes, owners corporations would be able to enter into an agreement with the local council to manage unauthorised parking on the common property. Current options already available to owners corporations to address unauthorised parking include by-law enforcement, signage and barriers and calling the police if an individual is thought to be trespassing.
<h3>DEVELOPER DEFECTS BOND</h3>
The reform will see property developers having to place a bond of 2 per cent of the value of the building to cover potential defects after completion. A building bond for the construction of high rise strata buildings (those over 3 stories in height) would maintain developer and builder accountability for their work. A process for the early identification and rectification of defects would be implemented, requiring developers to engage an independent building inspector to carry out a defect inspection report, at their cost, between 12 and 18 months after the completion of the building.
<h3>PETS</h3>
The reform will change the standard or default bylaw to state that pets are allowed, provided that the strata committee approves, although that approval can't unreasonably be withheld. During consultation on the reforms it was highlighted that, in some cases, people can be forced to choose between their pet and living in a strata building. Reforms would amend model by-laws to make it easier to keep pets as opposed to automatically prohibiting pet ownership in a scheme. The strata reforms would remove any reference to a ban in the model by-laws. Schemes would also be actively encouraged to review their by-laws and to consider whether their existing ban should be lifted. The strata reforms would not remove a scheme’s ability to make its own rules about pets. Schemes could place reasonable conditions on keeping pets (eg. its access to common property). If the model by-law were adopted, the request to keep a pet could not be unreasonably refused. For example, schemes could not unreasonably refuse the keeping of small animals, such as fish, or a cat, but could reasonably refuse rodents or venomous snakes. Each case would be considered on its merits.  Guide dogs would continue to be allowed regardless of a scheme’s by-laws and the reforms expand the category of guide dog to include hearing dogs and other assistance animals.
<h3>SMOKING</h3>
The reform identifies balcony smoke drift as a potential "nuisance" under the legal meaning of the word. The owners corporation would be able to prosecute offenders rather than leaving this to individual owners.
<h3> </h3>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Overcrowded strata apartments, illegal parking and other NSW strata reforms

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A $420,000 Marayong townhouse was Sydney's weekend cheapest sale, according to Australian Property Monitors.
It last sold at $222,500 in 2005, just falling short of doubling over the decade.
It was available for rent in late 2014 at $375 a week, reflecting around 4.6% gross yield.
<img src="https://i1.au.reastatic.net/456x342/35e0e3908879dd08ab96f6b50b23b59cbea602eb57bdf8335f0f16285a3ab6ba/main.jpg" alt="2/49-51 Davis Road, Marayong" title="2/49-51 Davis Road, Marayong" data-index="0">
Harcourts Blacktown agent Andrew Chrysanthou told Property Observer an investor secured the auction offering.
There were eight registered bidders for the two bedroom, one bathroom 1992 townhouse.
It was one of five sales under $500,000 across Sydney over the weekend, the others being apartments at Dee Why, Fairfield West, Freshwater and Kingsford.
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$420,000 Marayong townhouse Sydney's weekend cheapest sale

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As Sydney’s median house price appear headed for the $1,000,000 mark and as demand for inner-city apartments is at record levels, I would like to share some recent figures reflecting the state of the Manhattan Apartment market, where some of the prices are, according to the locals approaching ‘eye watering’ levels.
But first there’s a need to explain the differences between Co-ops and Condos, with a few key points.
Co-ops
Cooperatives or co-ops are common in New York City and they account for approximately 80% of apartment stock, these buildings are owned by an apartment corporation. Individuals do not actually “own” their apartments as they would in the case of “real” property, but own “shares” in the corporation, which entitles them to a long-term “proprietary lease.” The tenant-owner pays a portion of building expenses (which can include an underlying mortgage on the entire building) determined by the number of shares held in the corporation. Share amounts are dictated by apartment size and floor level. Co-ops are similar to our company title.
Condos
Condominiums – condos are common throughout the USA, but they are a rather new concept for New York City. A condominium apartment in Manhattan is real property and more or less directly like an apartment in Australia and they are usually easier to finance with lower deposit requirements.
With that brief summary in mind, the figures I refer to are for the second quarter 2015 and according to the Elliman Report [The Elliman Report, is private (non-official) research produced by Douglas Elliman in conjunction with Miller Samuel, a leading independent appraisal firm, and several other firms also produce these reports.] new price records were set for the average sale price, median co-op sale price, the average price per square foot for new developments, and the average price for luxury apartments, all jumped.
According to the report the average sale price for Manhattan is now a $1.87 million (AUD$2.487m*), and that’s 11.4% higher than a year ago. Of interest however is the fact that this growth is not being lead by luxury new developments, as was the case last year.
The record average and median price was set for the co-op market, and the established condo market average sale price also set a record, (with new development removed from the mix) the average, median, and price per square foot for resale condos, all set records making Manhattan apartments to quote ‘really expensive.’
Which might well be an understatement because the report puts the median sale price for all apartments at $980,000, (AUD $1.303m) which equals the second highest on record. While other published reports put the median slightly lower, at US$960,000 – $930,000, its worth keeping in mind that the current median record, US$1.025 million (AUD$1.363) was set in the pre-GFC market and peaked during the second quarter of 2008.
According to the Elliman Report the local co-op market, which is not swayed by new developments at all, saw some big price gains. The median price jumped nearly 10% from last year to US$795,000. The condo (apartment) market also set new records across the board, with the median price hitting US$1.39 million.
Compared to the first quarter, closings on new development condos sharply dropped, (keep in mind that in the USA sales including project sales are conducted very differently from our local market, auctions are rare and there is more negotiation involved with both sellers and buyers agents). Outside of the new project market, prices are transparent, when published prices are set, project prices are not published in the same way, with buyers being able to negotiate with the developer and then set a ‘closing’ price for the condo in a new project.
Currently Sydney has a lot of new apartment projects coming onto the market, while in these figures for Manhattan new projects accounted for just 8% of market transactions. Still new projects there stayed on trend and the average price per square foot set a new record, peaking at $2,011/sq. foot at approximately $22,300/sqm this is on a par with some new Sydney CBD projects and in some cases below our local price trends.
Tight Supply
Local commentators attribute these strong price gains to a lack of supply with new supply apparently ‘stalling’. Local market reports note that after bottoming out at the end of 2013, numbers expanded last year, but during the second quarter, supply only increased by a modest 1.3% over last year.
What’s also interesting is that apartments in the lower price range (below US$1 million) decreased, while those priced at $3 million or above saw steady gains. However the number of sales were down 20% compared to last year, and a lack of supply is seen as part of the reason volume dropped but the trend is still above average. According the Elliman report last year, the number of sales had spiked drastically thanks to pent-up demand that accumulated as the local economy improved after the financial collapse and things have now evened out.
Tight supply plus fewer ‘cheap apartments’ has been the perfect recipe for bidding wars, and that’s exactly what is happening. The report notes that more than half of all sales closed were at or above the asking price. The result was the highest such ratio since the financial crisis began. The Elliman report expects local price pressures will continue for the rest of the year and will eclipse 2014.
Incomes Stall Impacting Affordability
Like us there are concerns in this market over affordability and according to some comments in NYC this is crisis in the main caused by a lack of growth in incomes. The NYC Median Home Price Relative to Annual Income Ratio is now close to 7.0, whereas it used to be 5.0, the national ratio is now 3.7 years.
In Australia the figures look much worse, if you take (according to the ABS figures) average annual full-time income at $74,724 and assume, rather optimistically a house price of $650,000 then the ratio here is 8.6, well above the NYC ration. It’s no surprise then that according to figures from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that Australia has the third highest house price-to-income ratio in the world, after Belgium, Canada comes Australia then followed by Norway and Sweden. But we are not alone and post the GFC the IMF found 14 out of 24 developed economies examined still have above-average house price-to-income ratios.
In the US, as a result stagnant wage growth, weak household formation and tight credit are the reason why according to some local commentators, like Australia the US is having a national discussion around affordable housing, with homeownership rates falling and where rental prices are rising. While low interest rates are helping to drive demand here, in the US credit terms are less favourable in part because low-doc loans have now all but gone from the market. Most lenders also require a 20% deposit and or some degree of mortgage insurance, but we need to keep in mind that while home loan interest is a tax deduction, insurance premiums are not.
The NYC – Sydney Comparison
While average and median prices might not reflect the full spectrum of any market it appears that NYC and Sydney are similar in one way. What the figures show is that the apartment market in NYC is operating at a level of intensity above the balance of the country, and that also applies to Sydney.
Sydney’s demand and prices are running ahead of most other Australian cities, and a so as a result we may be seeing a two-tire market emerging, that is with Sydney, in particular the inner-city areas very active and then other parts of Australia less so.
And it appears that our local Planning Minister Rob Stokes is fairly comfortable with this situation. Last week speaking at an industry event Minister Stokes suggested that Sydney forget comparisons with Melbourne or Brisbane, rather he expressed the view that Sydneysiders should compare their city with global leaders such as London, New York, Singapore and even Dubai and from some of the figures outlined we can see we already share some aspects between our apartment markets.
According to the minister “We have a generational opportunity to reshape Sydney and we should seize it with vigour,” adding that Sydney had to “confront the institutional and government challenges” that had crippled its progress for decades, starting with the “silo thinking of government departments and the 43 local governments” across the city.
It was very encouraging to hear Rob Stokes further encourage Sydney’s growth and international ambitions.
Peter Chittenden is managing director for residential of Colliers International. He can be contacted <a href="https://www.projectagenda.com.au/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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pchittenden-eLqUUC8TWW

Comparing New York property to the Sydney market: Peter Chittenden

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The ABS released its consolidated <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/Lookup/8782.0.65.001Main+Features1Mar%202015?OpenDocument" target="_blank">Construction Activity</a> data for the March 2015 quarter this week. 
<div id="post-body-7503557364222292087" class="post-body entry-content">
<div>No real surprises to be found here, based upon what we have already seen.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Resources construction continues to decline apace, with engineering construction in chain volume measures terms declining by a further 7.0% in the first quarter of the calendar year, to be down by more than 20% year-on-year. Recent commodity price action suggests that the pace of the decline may even accelerate from here. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>On the positive side of the ledger, as implied by record high building approvals, residential construction has begun to respond to low interest rates, increasing very strongly by more than 5% in Q1 to be up by 11.9% over the past 12 months.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Non-residential building was up by 1.3% in the March quarter, but has increased only by a paltry 0.7% over the past year. Here's the chart: </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DDxrvVs-G9A/VamSG2DNnHI/AAAAAAAAW_w/9aD2jXo9y1s/s1600/Construction1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DDxrvVs-G9A/VamSG2DNnHI/AAAAAAAAW_w/9aD2jXo9y1s/s1600/Construction1.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DDxrvVs-G9A/VamSG2DNnHI/AAAAAAAAW_w/9aD2jXo9y1s/s640/Construction1.jpg" width="640" height="280"></a></div>
 <div>Piecing these figures together it's clear that residential construction alone will not fully compensate for the decline in mining capital expenditure, with total construction activity of $48.3 billion now declining back to the levels seen in Q4 2011.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>That said, $48.3 billion is still an elevated level of activity in historical terms...for now at least.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YDgBofnRhbY/VamSGwEWp2I/AAAAAAAAW_s/O5apxmfsbgQ/s1600/construction2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
 <div class="separator"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YDgBofnRhbY/VamSGwEWp2I/AAAAAAAAW_s/O5apxmfsbgQ/s1600/construction2.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YDgBofnRhbY/VamSGwEWp2I/AAAAAAAAW_s/O5apxmfsbgQ/s640/construction2.jpg" width="640" height="288"></a></div>
 <div>The full force of the challenge will come when the last of the mega projects finally reaches completion, with a number of massive projects still in the construction phase such as the $34 billion Ichthys LNG project in the Northern Territory. Regional centres The big picture is that as part of this rebalancing of the economy construction activity - and therefore employment - is shifting back away from the regions and towards the largest capital cities. The latest unemployment rate figures for Sydney (4.7%), Brisbane (5.2%) and Melbourne (5.8%) may prove to be seasonally low, but the smoothed rolling 12 monthly data does suggest that unemployment rates in all three of the most populous cities may just be trending steadily down.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ysRISR7K_4/Varagu2GulI/AAAAAAAAXAw/Qkiq-q3Y2zc/s1600/CAPCITY.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a> <div class="separator"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ysRISR7K_4/Varagu2GulI/AAAAAAAAXAw/Qkiq-q3Y2zc/s1600/CAPCITY.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ysRISR7K_4/Varagu2GulI/AAAAAAAAXAw/Qkiq-q3Y2zc/s640/CAPCITY.jpg" width="640" height="290"></a></div>
 The economy is Sydney in particular is thriving. Indeed, with employment, retail trade and house prices all booming, monetary policy settings are all too easy for the harbour city. Unemployment rates in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie seem to have steadied of late, but the trend in the Hunter is still upwards for now. It's likely to be a tough period of adjustment for towns in the Upper Hunter such as Muswellbrook and Singleton, with further job cuts at BHP Billiton's Mr. Arthur reported to be "imminent". It is worth noting that directly the mining industry is only a relatively small employer, but the reversal of the mining capital expenditure boom does have significant flow-on effects to other ancillary industries. Labour market conditions had seemed to be picking up in the Illawarra, but it is nevertheless the case that the outlook for domestic steelmaking remains potentially bleak. The Australian put it fairly bluntly, stating that the closure of BlueScope's Port Kembla steelworks is "a matter of when, not if". A recent poll in the Illawarra Mercury showed that more than 70% of respondents believe that the closure of the plant would cripple the Illawarra economy.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1QB4q-M4068/Vardl9i8mhI/AAAAAAAAXBE/4CU4N8kIH2Q/s1600/NSW.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a> <div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1QB4q-M4068/Vardl9i8mhI/AAAAAAAAXBE/4CU4N8kIH2Q/s1600/NSW.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1QB4q-M4068/Vardl9i8mhI/AAAAAAAAXBE/4CU4N8kIH2Q/s640/NSW.jpg" width="640" height="278"></a></div>
 Parts of regional Queensland have similar tales to tell. Again, unemployment rates from month to month don't tell us a great deal, and things seem to have stabilised in some regions, but the general trend has been towards unemployment rates reverting higher as the resources investment boom phase falls away.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gQD7HHdogLk/VaragsgYkoI/AAAAAAAAXAo/odZ9tSHh_O0/s1600/QLD.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a> <div class="separator"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gQD7HHdogLk/VaragsgYkoI/AAAAAAAAXAo/odZ9tSHh_O0/s1600/QLD.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gQD7HHdogLk/VaragsgYkoI/AAAAAAAAXAo/odZ9tSHh_O0/s640/QLD.jpg" width="640" height="286"></a></div>
</div>
 <div>Towns facing something of an uphill struggle include Dalby, Chinchilla, Roma, Moranbah, Emerald., Dysart, Bowen and others. Gladstone has also been going through its own transition phase over the past year or two. Tourism regions on the other hand should benefit from the ongoing depreciation of the Aussie dollar.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yeRSdxu4_5w/VatfKwQNUBI/AAAAAAAAXCQ/AgVE3IgBslA/s1600/tourism.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a> <div class="separator"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yeRSdxu4_5w/VatfKwQNUBI/AAAAAAAAXCQ/AgVE3IgBslA/s1600/tourism.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yeRSdxu4_5w/VatfKwQNUBI/AAAAAAAAXCQ/AgVE3IgBslA/s640/tourism.jpg" width="640" height="278"></a></div>
</div>
The wrap <div>There is not a lot new here, of course, and the rapid decline of engineering construction has evidently been in the post for some time now. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Although it is generally reported that a decline in construction is a "bad thing", it is also clear that Australia couldn't go on building mines for ever - at some stage they need to produce exports. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
Reductio ad absurdum, if any decline in construction activity is bad, then Australia would've been better off not having a mining boom in the first place.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>That said, the rising<a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/2015/07/city-versus-regional-jobs-divide-widens" target="_blank"> </a>levels of regional unemployment reported over the past week represent compelling evidence that many resources-influenced regions are set to be hit hard by declining demand in the years ahead.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>On the other hand the largest capital cities are benefiting from a boom in residential construction in particular together with the associated multiplier effect.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>One consequence of this is that certain inner city areas will evidently end up with an oversupply of apartments, particularly of high rise stock. Unit developments marketed overwhelmingly to investors may include those to avoid.</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>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Construction activity declines in the regions: Pete Wargent

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You know it wasn't that long ago that we lived in a totally different world. We had jobs for life. If you started work after leaving school in a bank, then you worked for a bank for the next thirty years or so. It was the same as buying a house and living in it for the same thirty years or so. That one house was deemed your 'investment for life' as superannuation was not yet invented.  
Also about 30 years ago, a little thing called the internet was introduced to us, we were told we could 'surf' the World Wide Web, little did we understand at the time the absolute massive impact this would have on the way we'd  live in the future.  
 I have trouble explaining to my kids that there was no internet when we were kids! The internet has now become an historical era; we talk pre and post internet. The internet opened up everything and now anyone, no matter what age can start a new business or become an 'entrepreneur'. So the 30 year careers in one industry have become extinct. 
A survey I read recently reported that 41% of all new business start ups in Australia are launched by people aged between 30 and 39, 21% aged 25 to 29 BUT 16% are aged between 40 and 44. I have a client starting her new business at the age of 58. Anything is possible. 
Today I received a call from a fifty something man who had made his fortune in buying, building up and selling businesses and now he was ready to park his money in property using a Self Managed Super Fund. He said "Jo, I'm ready now to kick back a bit and let my investments do the work for me." He is looking at a Property Bloom development that he'll fund from his SMSF that will create a nice chunk of equity during the development process and then result in a strong  yielding investment for him. 
The age for first time property investors is reducing. Whilst one in five Australians own an investment property, the number of Generation Y’s, individuals born roughly between 1982 and 1994, who own multiple properties is now on par with the Baby Boomers (17% own 2 or more). My step daughter fits this description with three properties under her belt.  Our youngest client will have six investment properties once we complete the two developments we have underway for him. His strategy is to build his portfolio as quickly as possible then as he starts a family, pull back and let time and capital growth work for him. The Gen Ys I know are clever. They embraces the internet early and used it as a tool to research and educate themselves on property investing. 
We live in a world overflowing with information and as older people realise that perhaps their 30 year career and original home is not going to deliver the retirement income they'll need over the next 30 years - because yes we are also living longer - then it's never too late to start investing and looking at entrepreneurial opportunities. Don't let physiological hang ups about 'comfort zones' set years ago hold you back. 
It's exciting times and why not build your own dream now? 
Jo Chivers is Chief Executive Officer of property development project managers <a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/about" target="_blank">Property Bloom</a>.
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Never too old to own your future: Jo Chivers

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There are 1,822 capital city auctions scheduled this week which is an increase from 1,704 last week. The final auction clearance rate was recorded at 74.9% and was the lowest combined capital city result since the first week in March, when across the combined capitals, 74.5% of reported auctions were recorded as sold.
Across Melbourne, there are 759 auctions scheduled this week which represents a significant increase from last week when there were 655 auctions across the city and higher than last year’s auctions at 674. Melbourne’s final auction clearance rate for last week was 77.4%.
Currently, CoreLogic RP Data is tracking 795 Sydney homes to be taken to auction this week, similar to the volumes seen last week when there were 791 auctions across the city. Last week Sydney’s clearance rate was 78.8%; the lowest result for the city since the final week in January when only 154 Sydney homes were taken to auction and the clearance rate was 77.9%. This is also the first time in 22 weeks where Sydney’s clearance rate has dropped below 80%. Given the strong performance of the Sydney auction market this year, there is likely to be even further interest toward upcoming auctions this week.
There will be 112 Brisbane auctions this week, down slightly from 123 last week and 116 at the same time last year. Last week, 52.5% of Brisbane properties taken to auction were sold.
79 Adelaide homes are being taken to auction this week, up from 69 last week and also higher than over the corresponding week last year (67). Adelaide’s clearance rate fell to 66.1% last week, after having been recorded above the 69% mark over the previous two weeks.
In Canberra, 45 residential properties will be taken to auction this week, compared to 31 last week and 48 last year.
Across Perth, 22 auctions are scheduled this week after there were 26 in the city last week and 16 over the same week one year ago.
Across Australia’s individual suburbs, the highest volume of auctions this week is in Victoria’s Mount Waverley, where 13 auctions are scheduled, followed by Randwick (NSW) and South Yarra (Vic) with 12 auctions.
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Capital city property auction volumes increase: CoreLogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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The NSW Government has said it will spend another $400 million to make land for housing shovel-ready and $19 million to create a planning body to oversee a plan to build 664,000 homes in 15 years. 
This addition to the Housing Acceleration Fund adds to the $566 million invested since its inception in 2012 and suggests the State Government subscribes to the shortage theory. 
But there’s another perspective on dwelling supply in Sydney – one that points to looming oversupply because of an overbuilding of apartments, a syndrome that’s rapidly spreading to all the capital cities of Australia.
Dr Nigel Stapledon of the University of NSW is one of those who believes Sydney is building too many apartments. Stapledon’s views deserve respect as someone who has comprehensively researched real estate in Australia, including one vast assignment which examined prices and rents going back more than a century. 
In a recent report, Stapledon said Sydney is about to be hit by a wave of new units, resulting in falling prices and rents in 2016. 
Stapledon said 13,000 new units will hit the market in Sydney before the end of the year. And an average of 28,000 new units will be completed each year for the next three years. Stapledon said that figure is more than double the historical average – between 2005 and 2014 an average of 15,700 new units were completed each year. 
The increase in supply could result in prices falling "north of 10%" within the next nine months, he said. The first sign of the slowdown will be an increase in rental vacancies followed by lower rent prices and a decline in investor demand.
His views make sense to me as recent history around Australia has shown that the one factor that can cause prices to fall significantly is an oversupply of dwellings. We’ve seen it recently in Gladstone in Queensland, the Hunter region in NSW and Port Hedland in WA, where a major lift in supply has been the big factor is sending a former boom into reverse. We’ve seen it in the past in apartment markets, including the Gold Coast and Melbourne.
If Stapledon is right, Sydney will join Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Darwin as capital cities which already have, or will soon have, serious gluts of inner-city apartments.
It seems every research entity relevant to Melbourne real estate has joined me in warning about the overbuilding of inner-city units. But new projects keep on coming. 
The latest mega project is an application for six towers in Fishermans Bend, with 1,580 units in a $600 million development south of the West Gate Freeway. Meanwhile, a 600-unit project has been proposed for South Kingsville and VCAT has approved a 450-unit project at South Yarra.
Melbourne may be the population growth capital (Melbourne added 95,600 to its population in 2014, compared to Sydney’s 84,200) but there are limits to how many units are needed – and to how many can be flogged to Asian investors.
The issue with Melbourne’s unit over-kill is not just the number being built – it’s also the size of them. On 5 July, The Age reported that “units with not enough space for basic activities such as eating at a dinner table” are planned for a new CBD tower. The 250m tower at 280 Queen Street by Brady Group has been branded too tall and bulky by council planners, who also found many of its 589 units were under-sized. 
The planners’ report said: "Many of the units are too small to allow for basic daily activities and functions such as eating at a dining table, or having a dressing table in the bedroom whilst maintaining access to the wardrobe." 
Although there will be 46 three-bedroom units, the planners said most were less than 70m2 - the minimum size for a two-bedroom unit in Sydney. 
According to council research, many bedrooms in Melbourne's high-rises do not have natural light. There’s a growing trend towards small floor plans, with 40% of the city's units less than 50m2. 
For all the above reasons, Melbourne inner-city apartments are shaping as very bad investments. You have wonder about the mentality of the investors who are lining up to buy them. Research is clearly not part of their process.
And it looks like Sydney is heading down the same slippery slope to surplus.
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> 
Terry was recently joined by Property Observer editor at large Jonathan Chancellor for a webinar on why research is the key to successful property investing in 2015. You can download slides and audio from the webinar here.
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The slippery slope to Sydney and Melbourne apartment surplus: Terry Ryder

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Brygon Reserve Shopping Village, a shopping centre in Upper Coomera’s high growth corridor on the northern Gold Coast, is being offered for sale by Ray White Commercial Gold Coast.
The 2,156 sqm site at lot 3/1 Brygon Creek Road, consists of eight tenancies, anchored by an IGA Express supermarket.
Steven King of Ray White Commercial Gold Coast says the centre’s potential base rental income represents $369,240 per annum.
Offers close on August 6.
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Brygon Reserve, Upper Coomera listed

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Yields of between 5.85% and 8.2% have been paid over the past year for Perth industrial property, according to recent Savills International research.
<a href="https://www.savills.com.au/research/australian-research/industrial-market.aspx" target="_blank">Savills Industrial Market Reports</a> provide an overview including tables and charts on infrastructure, leasing demand, sales activity and outlook.
Prime Perth rental net face range between $85 sq m to $110 sqm.  
<a href="/images/2015/07/15/savills_charts.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/07/15/savills_charts.jpg" alt="">
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Perth industrial property yields from 5.85%: Savills

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Six home owners at McKinnon in Melbourne’s south-eastern bayside, have reaped a $8.88 million, off-market sale of heir residential development site.
Savills Australia’s Julian Heatherich brokered the sale of the 3 to 9 Claire Street offering.
Sold at what is believed to be a record $2913 a square metre for the area, six neighbours came together with the common aspiration to create a one-off opportunity by combining their properties to form an attractive development prospect.
"Six home owners have reaped a circa 40% price windfall," Savills Australia’s Julian Heatherich said.
The property, comprising four residential sites totaling 3049 square metres and six individual properties (six owners), is zoned General Residential, has 60 metres frontage to Claire Street, minutes walk to McKinnon Road retail strip and railway station.
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