Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Joel Robinson

Brisbane's next apartment price record? Pikos unveils Skye's exclusive penthouse collection

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

A proposal to redevelop one of North Sydney's ageing commercial buildings has taken another step forward, with plans for a 38-storey mixed-use tower adding momentum to the long-awaited transformation of the Alfred Street precinct.

Now on public exhibition through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority-led State Significant Development pathway, the proposal for 271-273 Alfred Street would replace an underutilised commercial building with 95 apartments, ground-floor retail, commercial space and affordable housing. The proposal was submitted by&nbsp;Tara Shore Pty Ltd, acting for the John Taylor Family Trust.

While the project will deliver much-needed housing on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, it also represents another piece of a broader precinct that has spent years in planning limbo.

<img alt="First look: New public domain vision underpins 95-apartment North Sydney tower on Alfred Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e1ce1b4-38df-48ab-992f-386814d86308" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Alfred%20St%20da%20podium.png?VersionId=sC_h6w.A9VEoB98qsqowPlIoz__sBZBt" />

Despite its proximity to both North Sydney Station and the Victoria Cross Metro, redevelopment of Alfred Street has progressed slowly over the past decade as broader planning controls, zoning and building heights remained unresolved. The introduction of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway has provided a new avenue for projects to progress, allowing rezoning and development assessment to occur concurrently and unlocking sites that have long been earmarked for renewal.

Designed by Office of Cortese &amp; Gilder, the proposal seeks to do more than replace an ageing office building. The architects have positioned the project as the first stage of a wider public domain vision that would improve pedestrian connectivity and create a more cohesive mixed-use precinct as neighbouring sites are redeveloped over time.

The proposal includes a widened Alfred Street setback, new street trees, landscaping and outdoor seating, along with a landscaped through-site pedestrian link connecting Alfred Street with Little Alfred Street. The connection is intended to become the first section of a future east-west pedestrian network extending across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: New public domain vision underpins 95-apartment North Sydney tower on Alfred Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ea39ac3-46ad-4562-b4a0-b862e91c2dda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Alfred%20St%20da%20site.png?VersionId=K7umCd21KpetEFuVfsPlnJKhUOsmTTdV" />

The mixed-use tower would comprise retail space at ground level, commercial uses on level two and apartments from level three upwards.

In total, the development would deliver 95 apartments, including nine one-bedroom, 28 two-bedroom, 56 three-bedroom and two four-bedroom residences. Twenty-one apartments, representing 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area, would be secured as affordable housing and managed by a registered community housing provider for at least 15 years.

Nine basement levels would provide 133 resident car spaces, seven motorcycle spaces and 111 bicycle spaces.

According to the Architecture and Urban Design Report, the public domain strategy is designed to transform what is currently an inward-facing commercial edge into a more active and connected pedestrian environment, creating a stronger relationship between the commercial core and surrounding residential neighbourhoods.

Office of Cortese &amp; Gilder has also prepared a broader public domain framework spanning neighbouring properties between 263 and 283 Alfred Street, arguing that a coordinated approach to redevelopment will deliver better public spaces, improved tower separation and a more connected streetscape as the precinct evolves.

The proposal comes at a time where North Sydney is slated for future residential growth. Commercial developer FiveX has residential plans for the neighbouring site at 275 Alfred Street. They've proposed a 39-storey mixed-use tower with 184 apartments, while Freecity was recently approved for nearly 300 apartments across a 51-storey building on Walker Street.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-freecity-gets-green-light-for-mixed-use-apartment-and-hotel-tower-in-north-sydney">First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-plans-39-storey-residential-tower-in-booming-north-sydney">First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower in booming North Sydney</a>

&nbsp;

Alfred Street the latest North Sydney pocket to be transformed by residential development

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]

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 

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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

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

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It's no secret that I have a preference for obtaining a positive cash flow (or as close to it) from my property purchases.  I've written a lot about it over the years and have successfully added many such properties to my portfolio.
However, I can't help but notice that, somewhere along the line my message has been taken in a shortened form – leading investors to consider only cash flow when choosing their next property. This, in turn, results in the acquisition of property which might have good rent returns, but is in danger of not growing due to an absence of important growth drivers.
In choosing property for cash flow alone, many investors are inevitably led toward towns with a single industry.  Such towns tend to get a higher than usual rental yield for many reasons, including:
<ul>
<li>They are often well outside of major urban areas, and so the property values are low, creating a higher relative yield. 
</li>
<li>Where the industry in question is experiencing a robust period and demand for its product, extra workers are usually employed.  
</li>
<li>These workers often cannot be sourced from within town and so they are recruited from elsewhere, and move to the area, and as many of these workers are itinerant, at least until it can be confirmed that their continued employment is assured, they do not usually buy.  So, although the industry is doing well, the expanding population are not property buyers, and pressure is not brought to bear on values.  They are, however, renters and this is why rental yields often soar.</li>
</ul>
Property in such areas then becomes an attractive proposition, because, initially, the cash flows look fabulous.  This in turn attracts more investors and property prices do begin to move.  Pretty soon we see an artificial property boom, brought on purely by the existence of the single industry and the resulting hoards of hungry investors seeking, at first, good cash flows, and then the spin-off gain.
And while many experts may say that, where property in concerned 'time in market' is the key, in fact these towns require precise 'market timing' if the strategy is going to work.  You need to get in at the right time (before values move), and you need to exit the investment just before the fall that is often seen in such areas when the single industry falters, or the economy changes.  And if an investment requires precise market timing to pay off, then it also requires the investor to have a higher appetite for risk.
There is no question that, particularly while we are experiencing strong economic times and low interest rates, a property in a single industry town can provide a great return.  However, these properties must be considered to be a higher risk investment. 
As with any investment, the higher the potential return, the higher the risk, and property in single industry towns have more than their fair share of risks.
These include:
<ul>
<li>The lack of diversity of industry means the entire workforce's reliance on a single industry places the security of the whole town at risk, should something adverse happen to that one industry; 
</li>
<li>The prevalence of itinerant workers results in a weak underlying economy. Workers often take their earnings out of town and, if that industry's vibrancy is reduced, respond to economic changes, leave town altogether. This creates high vacancy rates, rapidly reversing the upward climb that property values were enjoying; 
</li>
<li>That same economic weakness means most councils lack the financial resources to provide infrastructure to the community, meaning that the towns are often severely under-resourced; 
</li>
<li>The entire town is highly exposed to 'hidden risk' – the risk that an unforeseen event, government decision or world economic turmoil impacts directly back on the only industry supporting the area.  This is a risk which cannot be mitigated as it most often cannot be foreseen, and in some cases has never actually happened before; 
</li>
<li>Even if that single industry continues on, the lack of diversity in industry usually means that the population grows very slowly – the town can only expand at the rate that the industry expands.  This can mean that, even though cash flow might be good, growth to the underlying asset (the property) is well below par. A sound property strategy requires both cash flow and growth.</li>
</ul>
If an your risk profile is such that you have plenty of capital and loss would not cripple you, or you have ample time available as an income earner within which you could replace lost capital, then the potential for good yields and possible capital gains may well make these risks worth taking.
However, if you are buying in order to create a retirement income, and each purchase must perform well, you may be gambling with what may become one of your only income sources, one which needs to last a significant length of time and will not be easily replaced if you are already close to retirement.  The surety of a house in an area with a growing population, diversity of industry and abundant infrastructure development is more likely to be the appropriate investment.  You may not have quite as much cash flow, but the chances of you having both the capital and a reasonable amount of yield and growth available to use for all of your retirement years are usually greater than these higher risk, single industry town investments.
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mlomas-KC9MUPZ6Ca

Buying in a single-industry town - how to negotiate the risks: Margaret Lomas

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At 6.00 pm on Saturday, on our first auction day of the year for Inner East and Bayside we have been to 13 auctions – all had bidders and all sold.
No emphasis on stats today as there were very few $1 million plus auctions , Inner Melbourne’s big auction games start next week.
I’ve really only had this week to get a “face to face street feel” on what’s happening in 2015. It appears to have started strongly and the vibe from the agents at the 20 homes which I inspected and rated was positive and “maaaate, the market continues to fire”. Heaps of people through opens.
Our company enquiry levels are up solidly on last year and we concur with what the selling agents are whispering under their breaths. We have already started with an auction win and a miss ($1 - $2 million) and the market hasn’t really got going in auctions yet. Off markets and other types of buying has also started for us.
Auction-wise, next week is different, a strong weekend with around 140 auctions over $1 million scheduled for Inner East and Bayside and the following week is a Super, Super Saturday with nearly 250. Hold onto your hats.
No we mean it – buyers should be holding onto their hats and only put their hand up if it makes sense. Every February we expect a strong start and this year is not unusual. After a six week Christmas hiatus there are a number of nervous nellies out there pushing hard on prices – it happens every year. It appears it will happen again this year.
So demand is coming from four types of buyers:
<ol>
<li>New local buyers (average price thoughts)</li>
<li>New overseas buyers (higher than average price thoughts)</li>
<li>An array of nervous nellies (higher than average price thoughts)</li>
<li>Last year’s wounded underbidders (higher than average price thoughts)</li>
</ol>
All these buyers are pushing through the February OFI doors like a Boxing Day David Jones Doorbuster Sale.
Every year around this time, we urge caution, 2015 will be the same. If it’s good, go for it; but once the bidding get’s past very strong, consider your competitors, consider your alternatives, consider stopping and trying on another home, another day.
Case in point (1): Last weekend on the one we missed at 14 Parliament Street, Brighton (Julian Augustini) – agent quoting around $950,000 to $1,050,000. We opened at $1,100,000 and then a guy bid $1,150,000 and then bid against himself up another $50,000 to $1,200,000. We competed against him and another bidder, until we were beaten at $1,325,000. Please, this was a good home for what it was and congratulations to the buyer – bought a good property, but the agents will tell you they couldn’t get it sold late last year around the opening bid (nearly $200,000 south of today’s price).
Case in point (2): We could have bought 8 Johnson Street, Hawthorn (James Tostevin) quietly last year circa $1,600,000. We didn’t. Today four bidders competed to just over $1,800,000.
Case in point (3): We couldn’t buy a property pre-Christmas off market, but bought it this year before auction – Glen Iris (Cameron Edgoose).
So has the market started with a bang or is this the usual February ”Berocca” effect where you wake up desperate, take a Berocca and go out there and take the world on?
Big numbers through opens in February is about as Melburnian as big numbers through the gates at the first round of the footy season.
While the market mood appears just as strong as last year, maybe even more so, any longer term market shift won’t be evident until Super Saturday 28 March and confirmed mid May.
Mal writes weekly auction reports, advice and in-depth market analysis on <a href="https://www.jamesbuyeradvocates.com.au/" target="_blank">James' website</a>.
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maljames-vHwm28JUAa

Caution - nervous bidders are pushing hard on auction prices: Mal James

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House prices are soaring in comparison to incomes, making life difficult for many and threatening to undermine national economic performance. Western Australia has devised an innovative policy solution.
Using a shared equity model, the Shared Home Ownership scheme allows low-earning prospective homeowners who meet certain criteria to purchase a property by sharing up to 30% of the capital cost with the Department of Housing and borrow the rest with a SharedStart loan through state mortgage lender KeyStart Home Loans.
The loan is directly linked to a major construction expressions of interest project that means the department is able to procure newly built, affordable dwellings in bulk from the market at discounted rates. The discount to market prices gained by the department become its equity share in the portfolio of properties.
In recognition of its achievements, the Department of Housing won the overall award at the 2014 WA Premier’s Awards for Public Sector Excellence and the “Developing the Economy” award for the scheme.
Perhaps unsurprisingly given Australians’ obsession with home ownership, <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/publications/projects/p70394" target="_blank">previous research conducted</a> with potential purchasers of shared equity homes showed focus group participants had two primary motivations that would impact on their interest in such schemes: wanting the security of having a place of their own on the one hand, and desiring asset accumulation on the other.
So unlike other shared ownership models where the government retains a permanent interest in the property, stunting the resident’s opportunities for wealth formation but ensuring long-term affordability is maintained, WA’s Shared Home Ownership scheme encourages the resident to eventually buy out the department’s share, offering a path to full home ownership.
Interest rates are set higher than the lowest variable market rate so that, while repayments will be lower for the period that the homebuyer owns only 70-80% of the property, they will be incentivised to refinance with a private institution once they buy out the department’s share.
So far the program has helped deliver home ownership to over 700 low-income households, many of whom would not have been able to do so otherwise. Though such a program cannot be targeted at the lowest socio-economic groups, as it still relies on a regular income to pay off a mortgage, it lowers barriers to entry for those making below-median incomes.
The program was developed “in response to an increased demand for affordable housing as rents became unaffordable in Western Australia”, says Adrian Warner, acting director of strategy and policy at the Department of Housing.
“In the March quarter of 2014, the median rent reached $460 in Perth, while the median house price increased to $540,000, up from $525,000 in the previous quarter,” he said.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-22441" src="https://www.themandarin.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/graph.png" alt="graph" width="504" height="405">
The program has been praised for its benefits to prospective purchasers, government and the wider community, he said:
<ul>
<li>Purchasers only need to borrow 70-80% of the property value;</li>
<li>The equity component is not dependent on a government grant or debt;</li>
<li>The supply of entry-level housing is increased;</li>
<li>It supports local industry and creates value for the economy — over $650 million in economic activity to date;</li>
<li>First home buyers require only a 2% or $2000 deposit;</li>
<li>No lender’s mortgage insurance or monthly account keeping fees.</li>
</ul>
According to figures provided by the Department of Housing, to date, SharedStart has delivered:
<ul>
<li>$149 million of direct construction activity;</li>
<li>$112 million of induced activity by suppliers;</li>
<li>1491 jobs supported;</li>
<li>722 households into home ownership;</li>
<li>Total economic benefit to the state of $465 million.</li>
</ul>
{qtube vid:=9w3-JRBmeis}
Return for households and government
A <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/publications/projects/syn91" target="_blank">report by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute</a> in partnership with PricewaterhouseCoopers found the program was not only achieving its intended outcomes, but had generated significant returns for households, government and industry. AHURI found that the department’s practice of acquiring new homes had helped increase housing supply:
“The shared equity EOI initiative increased the overall supply of low-cost dwellings through its EOI procurement process. This distinguishes the EOI initiative from shared equity schemes that are linked to existing dwellings and therefore do not achieve an increase in the overall supply of dwellings …
“There was agreement amongst all stakeholders interviewed that the shared equity EOI initiative has been highly effective in increasing the supply of lower-cost housing. For example, a peak body representative described the effectiveness in relation to increasing lower-cost housing supply as ‘outstanding’ and a senior Keystart representative commented that the scheme has been highly effective in terms of providing low-cost properties, which were under $300,000 in several circumstances.
Resident satisfaction with housing affordability was very high:
“… the majority of respondents (87.4%) agreed or strongly agreed that their mortgage payments were affordable; and the majority of respondents (74.9%) agreed or strongly agreed that their home was affordable to run (e.g. in terms of utility bills).”
And the program has done well helping lower income people move into their own housing:
“The scheme was successful in providing home ownership opportunities to members of the targeted client groups. This included: eight public housing tenants who moved into home ownership via the shared equity EOI scheme; 188 survey respondents who were first home owners and 198 survey respondents who reported that they would never have been able to buy a home from the private market without the shared equity EOI scheme; six survey respondents who reported having a disability; and nine respondents who reported living with a person with a disability; 58 survey respondents who were single home owners with one child or more; and 42 survey respondents who were key workers [nurse, teacher, police etc].”
The program has encouraged more interest among developers for building one- and two-bedroom housing, something traditionally seen as more risky.
The report found that the typical expectation of housing assistance is that it is a form of subsidy to households that generates significant costs to government. “Instead,” said Warner, “this form of assistance makes a sustained, substantial difference to the financial wellbeing of lower-income households whilst also delivering a positive rate of return for government. Through this process, value has been created for government in the form of embedded equity stock.
“These initial equity shares had an estimated value of $58 million by September 2013 for 722 properties ($80,729 per property). These equity shares were created without capital expenditure by the department.
“Due to the nature of the SharedStart scheme, as house prices increase so will the value of equity shares held by the department. Additionally, the scheme ensures that the portfolio maintains a strong asset base as government sells down other state assets.”
The scheme is part of the government’s Affordable Housing Strategy 2010-2020, which sets a target of at least 20,000 new affordable homes by 2020.
“The government passed the halfway mark on its target just three years into the strategy,” said Warner. “Over 17,000 new affordable housing opportunities have been created since January 2010, on schedule to exceed the target of 20,000 by 2020.”
<a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/publications/projects/p80088">Research from 2003 showed</a> shared equity to be a more effective policy option than the First Home Owners Grant at assisting low-income earners into housing. According to modelling, shared equity would have a greater impact on home ownership rates, is more likely to be taken up by lower income households, and is less likely to simply bring forward home purchase decisions.
This article first appeared on <a href="https://www.themandarin.com.au/" target="_blank">The Mandarin</a>.
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

How WA is tackling the housing affordability crisis

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Cbus Property has sold 81-125 Princes Highway, Dandenong – formerly the General Motors Holden manufacturing site – to the Western Australia property syndicator fund manager Warrington Property Group.
The 33.7 hectare property comprises 8 hectares, with three buildings totalling 27,919 square metre leased to GPI, CEVA and Australia Meat Holdings.
<img src="/images/2015/02/18/etstqae-feb-18-one.jpg" alt="">
Fully leased the total estate income is $6.7 million.
It is located 32 kilometres south-east of the Melbourne CBD.
Warrington Property, which has around $250 million of assets under management, was founded by British-born valuer Chris Weaver.
The Dandenong deal was brokered by Savills Australia agents Chris Jones and Ben Hegerty.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Warrington Property Group buys 33 hectare Dandenong property

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The industrial premises at 72-76 Cherry Lane, Laverton North have been sold for $29 million on a 7.5% yield through Savills.
Toll Holding sold the 9.8 hectare holding to Stockland in an off market sale and leaseback.
The facility comprises a 20,500 square metre warehouse and 4.5 hectares of container-rated hardstand.
Laverton North is one of Melbourne’s premier industrial locations, with the Cherry Lane facility located 12 kilometres west of the Port of Melbourne and 16 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD.
It is located very close to the Princes Highway, Westgate Freeway and Western Ring Road.
Stockland chief Mark Steinert said high-quality acquisitions supported their strategy to profitably increase the size and scale of its Logistics and Business Parks portfolio.
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Toll Holdings sells Laverton industrial property

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NAME:  Rod Chadwick<img src="/images/2015/02/18/chadwick-feb-18-one.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;"> 
POSITION:  State general manager, Queensland
COMPANY:  AVJennings
OFFICE LOCATION: Milton, Brisbane
<ul>
<li>How long have you been in the industry?</li>
</ul>
15 years. I joined AVJennings in 2004 as NSW business development manager before relocating to Auckland, New Zealand in April 2008 to take up the role of project director with AVJennings’ Hobsonville Point Development. In July 2014, I relocated to Brisbane to join the Queensland team as AVJennings Queensland general manager.
<ul>
<li>What’s happening in the area you specialise in?</li>
</ul>
Affordability continues to be a significant factor that consumers consider when purchasing a new or existing property. Interest rates are at a record low and as such we are seeing increased activity in the first home buyer market across our Queensland portfolio.
To ensure our products represent good value, AVJennings is continuously looking to innovate, whether this is in the urban design of new communities, the architectural design of new homes or in the materials and construction techniques we use when building new homes.
Our ability to provide innovative and consumer focussed products ensure that our products appeal to a broad range of customers from first and second home buyers and young families through to empty nesters looking to settle into a low maintenance home in established communities.
<ul>
<li>Describe the most interesting property you have worked on? </li>
</ul>
Creekwood at Meridan Plains on the Sunshine Coast because of the diverse range of properties offered to the community. The entire Creekwood community spans 50 hectares and on completion will feature a total of 370 townhomes, terrace and loft homes and 470 homesites.
There is so much activity in the area, with the new Sunshine Coast Public University Hospital  at the Kawana Health Precinct set to employ 3,500 people - it's an exciting project in a beautiful part of Queensland.
<ul>
<li>What are the ingredients to being successful in your job? </li>
</ul>
Being consumer orientated is key.  Strong communication skills, unwavering commitment and patience are just as important as being inquisitive, numerate and strategic.
<ul>
<li>What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most? </li>
</ul>
Creating communities and homes that people love to live in. At AVJennings, we are committed to our philosophy of creating fresh residential addresses that meet the individual needs of local communities and modern lifestyles.
Choosing a place to live is part of the great Australian dream. Our investment in innovative design, excellent land management practices, delivering outstanding community facilities and great living environments are our way of staying true to our goal of creating high-quality communities. It is great to be part of a dedicated team with values that align with the AVJennings brand.
<ul>
<li>Where would you invest a spare $750,000?</li>
</ul>
AVJennings’ Elysium Noosa community at Noosa Heads, Queensland.  The Noosa Heads property market is in the recovery cycle with sales prices and volume increasing. There are opportunities to purchase land and new homes in the Noosa Market for a fraction of the prices of being paid prior to the GFC. This represents the opportunity for capital gain as the market continues to improve and more buyers return to enjoy the lifestyle benefits of the Noosa region.
Elysium Noosa is one of the limited addresses where you can buy new land and homes with a Noosa Heads address. Elysium appeals to owner occupiers and investors alike as residents have access to their very own Rec Club with pool, tennis courts and residents lounge, plus its only 10mins to the restaurants of Hastings Street and Noosaville.
<ul>
<li>Which football team do you support?</li>
</ul>
Wallabies.  Queensland Reds, Socceroos, Central Coast Mariners.
<ul>
<li>What’s your favourite app or techno gadget? </li>
</ul>
iPhone.  Now extension of the arm. Nearmap software allows me to access aerial images changing over time.
<ul>
<li>How do you use social media? </li>
</ul>
Limited to be honest. I am on LinkedIn but I rely on my social media savvy team in the social media arena.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

In profile: AVJennings' state general manager, Queensland, Rod Chadwick

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Australand has been selected as the preferred developer to transform 50 hectares of vacant council land in Sunbury following an agreement with Hume City Council.
The 390 new home residential development, Sunbury Fields, located on Racecourse Road just 2 kilometres north of the historic Sunbury Town Centre, will have around 30% dedicated to open space.
Given the presence of the Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Sunbury Fields will feature 9.7 hectares of Grassy Woodlands Conservation Reserve.
There will also be 3.5 hectares of local village parks and gardens along with 1.6 hectares of wetlands.
Australand advised the development would cater for more than 1,000 residents on completion with land blocks ranging from compact 263 square metres to large country-style blocks of more than 1,540 square metres.
The Sunbury Fields site had a history dating back to the late 1800s where it was home to the annual Easter military encampments by the Rupertswood Battery and then as Sunbury’s Racecourse in the 1900s.
Following rezoning of the site late last year, Hume City Council has issued planning permits for the Sunbury Fields development with onsite works scheduled to commence in April 2015 and an estimated completion by 2018.
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Australand wins Sunbury Fields development rights

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Investors who are looking for the highest returns will continue to look for development opportunities, and Savills particularly favour outer London and the key regional cities as development opportunities in 2015. Speculative development activity will remain sparse, due to investor and lender caution, but those who are brave enough to undertake it will do well, it said.
Overall Savills expect that 2015 will be another strong year for UK real estate, but investors are going to have to work harder to identify markets and sectors that will deliver high returns.
"The commercial markets in 2015 will still offer opportunities for both risk-averse and risk-embracing investors, though the stronger than expected bounce in capital values in 2014 will diminish," the report said.
In London offices, the low level of availability will continue to deliver strong rental growth.
"We expect to see continuing strong demand from risk-averse international investors," said the report.
"Strong capital value growth was undoubtedly the key theme of 2014, with growth across all sectors stronger than we were forecasting at the beginning of the year.
"We expect to see continuing capital value growth across all prime sectors in 2015, albeit at a slower rate.
"The general election in spring 2015 will definitely have some effect on sentiment, though in the agricultural and commercial sectors we expect the effects to be relatively muted."
In the residential markets the threat of mansion tax, combined with the Mortgage Market Review could lead to a more sustained hiatus in capital value growth in 2015.
Generally Savills expect that the macro- economic story for the UK will remain benign, with base rates remaining unchanged until early 2016, and the combination of low oil prices and recovering incomes giving a boost to the UK consumer.
Savills expect that UK real estate will continue to deliver high returns in comparison to other asset classes.
"This will mean that domestic and international demand for prime and good secondary assets will be strong, though we expect to see more focus on supply and demand fundamentals in 2015, rather than just the potential for yield shift."
Savills top picks across all sectors are for markets with structural or impending undersupply.
Click to open in new window:
<a href="/images/2015/02/18/save%20feb%2018%20one.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/02/18/save%20feb%2018%20one.jpg" alt=""></a>
Source: Savills
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Savills suggest UK commercial investment strategies for 2015

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Building and landscaping industry operative Andrew Smith, from nearby Holgate, has emerged as the director of the purchasing company of the Patonga Beach Hotel on NSW’s Central Coast.
It was sold, five months after being listed with $10 million sale hopes. The land sale component totalled $7.35 million on its recent settlement.
Listed by the Osborne family, the Patonga Beach Hotel and the adjoining fish shop is set in the gully on the shores of Broken Bay at the mouth of the Hawkesbury River.
It is the only hotel in a 12-kilometre radius.
It is opposite the Patonga Beach ferry wharf, popular with day-trippers and visitors from the Central Coast.
<a href="https://rca.joneslanglasalle.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-nsw-patonga-501053471" target="_blank">Jones Lang LaSalle Hotel and Hospitality Group agent John Musca</a> had the 1,546 square metre hotel offering.
Since 2000 Andrew Smith has headed Scape Constructions that undertakes civil construction, commercial landscaping and building.
Photo source: Facebook.
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Patonga Beach Hotel buyer emerges as Central Coast builder

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As a commercial property investor it's important for you to keep tabs on all the separate markets around Australia.
To help with that, a recent market update by Credit Suisse places Sydney and Melbourne CBD offices as the best performers over the next three years.
However, Brisbane and Perth are expected to deteriorate further from where they are at present.
The report anticipates a 3.5% per annum improvement in the effective rental for both Sydney and Melbourne — with vacancy rates to remain under 10% for the next three years.
And this is supported by improved tenant demand over the past 12 months.
Whereas, rentals for Brisbane and Perth are expected to fall by 1.2% and 7.2% respectively over the same period.
And their vacancy rates are likely to blow out to 22% and 19% respectively.
Unfortunately, demand for space in both these mining States has been rather weak; and the Office markets continue to suffer from an oversupply of new space.
Historically, you find the surrounding suburban areas tend to follow closely what occurs within the various CBD office markets.
That means, any increase (or decrease) in demand for space tends to create a "ripple effect" out into the suburbs — with a time-lag of a around six months.
Bottom line, for the foreseeable future Sydney and Melbourne are expected to have strong tenant and buyer demand for office property. In turn, this should provide investors with solid predictable income and capital growth over the next three to four years.
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