Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Joel Robinson

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

La Vera closes in on completion as Macquarie Park continues residential transformation

Brisbane developer Red &amp; Co's decision to include dual key apartments in its debut Gold Coast apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO Varsity Lakes</a>, is proving to be one of the project's biggest drawcards, with buyers quickly snapping up the flexible residences.

More than half of the project's 36 dual key apartments have already sold, helping drive COMO beyond the 50 per cent sold mark within the first month of launch.

The strong response highlights growing demand for apartment designs that can adapt to changing lifestyles, with buyers increasingly looking for homes that accommodate multi-generational living, provide rental income opportunities or simply offer greater flexibility over time.

Located on the shores of Lake Orr, COMO will deliver 156 apartments across 16 levels, with the dual-key residences forming a limited release within the broader development.

Each combines a primary two-bedroom apartment with a fully self-contained studio on a single title, connected by a shared foyer and lockable internal door. The design allows owners to house ageing parents, adult children or guests while maintaining privacy, or lease the secondary residence to generate additional income.

Just 17 of the original 36 dual key apartments remain available.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=367096]

The innovative configuration combines two fully self-contained residences on a single title, typically comprising a primary two-bedroom apartment alongside a separate studio residence, connected via a shared foyer and lockable internal door.&nbsp;

The model is proving particularly attractive to owner occupiers navigating changing family dynamics and the realities of the current housing crisis.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363511]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/npa">NPA</a>&nbsp;CEO Andrew Erwin said dual key living was resonating strongly with modern buyers because it delivered both financial flexibility and practical lifestyle benefits.&nbsp;

“The housing crisis and rising cost of living are fundamentally changing how Australians think about home ownership,” Erwin said.&nbsp;

“Dual key apartments provide a genuine solution for families who want to stay connected while maintaining independence. Parents can help adult children save for a future home, ageing parents can remain nearby without moving into aged care, and owners still retain privacy and flexibility.

“Importantly, buyers are also recognising the financial advantages. It creates the opportunity to generate additional income from part of the home without the holding costs associated with owning a separate investment property.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363509]

Unlike traditional dual occupancy arrangements, the residences operate under a single title, meaning owners only incur one set of body corporate fees, council rates and holding costs.&nbsp;

The secondary residence can also evolve over time - functioning as guest accommodation, a home office, creative studio or private retreat before later becoming an income-producing asset.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co</a>&nbsp;Director and Co-Founder David Laverty said the strong early sales reflected growing buyer urgency and changing priorities within the market.&nbsp;

“Securing more than half of COMO’s residences within such a short timeframe is an outstanding result and a clear endorsement of both the design and location,” Laverty said.&nbsp;

“Buyers are responding to the combination of location, connectivity and amenity, but ultimately it’s value relative to other East Coast markets that is driving enquiry.”&nbsp;

“We’re also seeing strong interest from owner occupiers looking for homes that can adapt with them over time. Flexibility has become one of the most important considerations for buyers in today’s market.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363515]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, COMO features a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom residences with 2.7-metre ceilings and larger-format floorplans aimed at owner occupiers, downsizers and lifestyle-focused buyers.&nbsp;

The development will feature an extensive rooftop recreation and wellness offering including a 25-metre lap pool, sundeck, barbecue and dining areas, gym, sauna, plunge baths, landscaped gardens, wellness spaces and rooftop pickleball and paddleball courts.

The remaining dual key apartments range from 137 sqm to 167 sqm and include generous three-bedroom layouts with separate self-contained studio accommodation and dual parking.&nbsp;

Erwin said the dual key concept represented a broader shift in how Australians would live in the future.

“People want homes that can evolve with their lives,” he said.&nbsp;

“A dual key apartment can suit a family today, support an ageing parent tomorrow, and potentially generate income later on. That adaptability is becoming incredibly valuable in the current environment.”

Prices currently range from $2,115,750 to $2,583,000.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135546]

Inter-generational living drives demand for COMO’s dual key apartments as housing pressures reshape buyer priorities 

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ceerose">Ceerose</a> has doubled down on its Leichhardt ambitions, lodging its second State Significant Development Application (SSDA) in the suburb in the last six months.

Their newest proposal seeks to transform a former industrial precinct into a new residential community centred around the adaptive reuse of one of the site's heritage warehouse buildings.

The new project, on a 6,930 sqm block at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/40-76-william-street-leichhardt-nsw-2040">40–76 William Street</a>, will bring more than 200 apartments to a suburb that has seen little to no new supply in recent years. It follows Ceerose's late 2025 SSDA for a mixed-use apartment project on nearby Parramatta Road, signalling the developer's growing investment in Sydney's Inner West.

Ceerose Founder Edward Doueihi told Apartments.com.au the developer’s long-standing presence in Leichhardt and the Inner West had given it a strong understanding of how the area has evolved and where its future opportunities lie.

“Ceerose has had a long-standing presence in Leichhardt and the Inner West, giving us a unique understanding of the area’s evolution and future potential,” Doueihi said.

“Having delivered projects throughout the region, we have witnessed the suburb’s transformation first-hand and understand the opportunities for its continued growth.”

Doueihi said that understanding also informed the planning process, with a comprehensive Stakeholder Engagement Outcomes Report prepared before the application was lodged.

The report identified the key issues and concerns raised by neighbouring residents and other stakeholders, allowing those matters to be considered and incorporated into the design where appropriate.

He said the delivery of additional housing would also play an important role in supporting the revitalisation of Norton Street and the Italian Forum.

“By increasing the local residential population, the development is expected to strengthen demand for local businesses, encourage further investment, and help restore the vibrancy that made the precinct a thriving destination in the early 2000s.”

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7258c54c-8167-479e-8361-2d5fca9915b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010B%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%202.jpg?VersionId=S9DQfxu_jpcB5LrAEYFUbyMzg5odW6i5" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the redevelopment would involve the demolition of four existing industrial buildings while retaining and adaptively reusing the site's most significant warehouse. The retained structure would anchor a new residential precinct comprising five interconnected buildings arranged around a large central landscaped courtyard, with heights stepping from five storeys along the surrounding residential streets to 11 storeys at the William Street corner.

According to the Architecture Design Report by Woods Bagot, the proposal "seeks to create a residential village centred around a generous green heart while celebrating the site's industrial heritage through the adaptive reuse of the existing warehouse building."

The development would comprise 203 apartments, with 188 proposed as build-to-sell residences, alongside 15 affordable housing apartments.

Rather than treating the retained warehouse as a standalone heritage object, Woods Bagot has sought to weave the site's industrial history throughout the masterplan. The proposal retains the north and west facades of the landmark corner warehouse, while new buildings reinterpret the site's brick-and-steel industrial language through their material palette and architectural expression.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e8c64c2-881b-49e1-8c90-6b6acaaa45b6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010C%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%203.jpg?VersionId=Qm8_8H_Xrg_sc4Mdjc59vlAcKF_5wRTb" />

The design is organised around what Woods Bagot describes as a "green heart", a landscaped communal open space that reinstates the leafy character removed when the site became an industrial storage facility. A new pedestrian laneway running through the site would improve permeability between William, North and Francis streets, linking residents through landscaped public spaces while activating the ground plane.

Residents would have access to communal gardens and shared recreation areas distributed throughout the development. Sustainability has also been prioritised, with the project targeting an average 7.9-star NatHERS rating. Proposed initiatives include rooftop solar generation, rainwater harvesting, passive solar design, naturally ventilated lobbies, extensive cross-ventilation and the reuse of existing building fabric to reduce embodied carbon.

The adaptive reuse strategy became a defining feature of the application after heritage investigations found only one of the site's industrial buildings could feasibly be retained. The Heritage Impact Statement concludes that preserving the key warehouse façades while referencing the site's industrial character throughout the new development provides an appropriate balance between renewal and conservation.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="efffafdb-594f-4e2b-a067-921fd51c05e1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010D%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%204.jpg?VersionId=DPmE4.k16YRt0i27hEZVtJAffarpvUfx" />

"Retention and adaptation of the site buildings has been explored but found not to be feasible except for the tallest building, whose street facades will be retained," the heritage report states.

"The proposed building will interpret the brick and steel character of the subject site, including reuse of some components and construction of a large 'sawtooth' structure in the proposed open space."

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3bfef2b5-83f5-40cd-9cab-767092f34266" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010E%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%205.jpg?VersionId=7asb3i_ql4ybbuJOUb5UHBEIy0Q9t.DF" />

The William Street site is located around 300 metres from Leichhardt North Light Rail station and a short walk to Norton Street's retail, dining and hospitality precinct. The surrounding area has increasingly become a focus for urban renewal given its proximity to public transport and the Parramatta Road corridor.

Doueihi founded Ceerose in 1998 and has grown the business to become one of Sydney's more active apartment developers in recent years, with completed projects including The Alex Collective in Alexandria, Abbie's Lane in Annandale, and the award-winning Munro House in Elizabeth Bay. They are currently delivering Belgravia, 17 luxury apartments in Potts Point.

First look: Ceerose doubles down in Leichhardt with adaptive reuse of former warehouse site

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?

For the first time in a long time, Australia's inflation story is starting to look more like a landing than a fight.

The latest Consumer Price Index figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed annual inflation eased to four per cent in May, down from 4.2 per cent in April. On the surface, that might not seem like a major move. Inflation remains above the Reserve Bank's target range and some categories continue to record stubborn price growth.

But the significance of this result lies less in where inflation sits today and more in what it means for where interest rates are likely heading next.

The biggest takeaway is that inflation continues to move in the right direction.

Markets had been bracing for another sticky result after a period where progress appeared to stall. Instead, headline inflation came in softer than expected, helped by falling fuel prices and easing transport costs. Annual transport inflation halved from 6.6 per cent in April to 3.3 per cent in May, while automotive fuel prices fell 11.9 per cent during the month following lower oil prices and the impact of reduced fuel excise measures.

While petrol prices don't solve Australia's affordability challenges, they are one of the most visible and immediate costs for consumers. Falling fuel costs feed through the economy quickly, helping ease pressure on household budgets and business operating expenses.

The ABS data also showed headline inflation is now sitting at its lowest annual level in several months, reinforcing the broader trend that price growth is gradually moderating.

That trend is important because it aligns with what many economists and lenders have been saying for the last month.

Prior to this week's inflation data, ANZ, NAB and Commonwealth Bank had all shifted their forecasts, now believing the Reserve Bank had likely reached the peak of the interest rate cycle. Following the May inflation release, ANZ reaffirmed that view.

In its latest economic update, ANZ said it expects quarterly trimmed mean inflation to come in at 3.7 per cent for the June quarter, slightly below the Reserve Bank's forecast of 3.8 per cent. Importantly, the bank said that outcome, when combined with slowing economic activity, "supports our view that the cash rate has peaked".

The Reserve Bank has spent the better part of three years attempting to bring inflation under control through higher interest rates. If Australia's major banks are correct and rates have now peaked, the conversation shifts from how much higher rates could go to when they might begin coming down.

Westpac's caution comes from underlying inflation. The trimmed mean, the measure most closely watched by the Reserve Bank, increased from 3.4 per cent to 3.6 per cent annually. Housing inflation remains elevated at 6.5 per cent, reflecting ongoing increases in rents, electricity costs and new dwelling construction.

Electricity prices remain particularly problematic, rising 21.1 per cent over the past year following the removal of government rebates.

Housing construction costs are also showing signs of renewed pressure. ANZ noted new dwelling costs rose 0.9 per cent in May and are now running at an annualised pace of 8.6 per cent over the past three months. Builders continue to face higher labour, fuel and material costs, a reminder that inflationary pressures have not completely disappeared.

Housing affordability has deteriorated largely because of higher interest rates rather than higher property prices alone. Even modest reductions in mortgage rates would improve borrowing capacity, increase buyer confidence and reduce repayment pressure on existing homeowners.

While August is far from a certainty, the latest inflation result has strengthened the view that the next move in rates is more likely to be down than up. For borrowers, buyers and the development sector, that alone represents a significant shift from the conversation that dominated much of the past two years.

The inflation result the property market was waiting for

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Multiplex has completed M&amp;L Hospitality’s makeover of 161 Sussex Street in Sydney's Darling Harbour.
The former Four Points by Sheraton Sydney was rebranded recently to Hyatt Regency Sydney, marking the Hyatt Regency’s return to Sydney.
The redevelopment included refurbishment of the existing hotel, a new 3,667 square metre convention centre and a 25-level tower including 13 new hotel levels and 10 levels of A-grade high rise commercial office space.
The additional 25-storey tower has added 222 new guest rooms to what was already Australia’s largest hotel, bringing the total number of rooms to 892.
A lot of construction took place over the top of the Western Distributor Freeway, a major feeder road from the Sydney CBD to the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
David Ghannoum, regional managing director at Multiplex, said a big challenge was building over an operating freeway and in a live hotel environment and care was taken to complete the works with minimal disruption to the 80,000 vehicles using the Western Distributor daily and the 600-700 guests staying at the hotel each night.
Work started in December 2014 and took two years to finish.  
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Darling Harbour sees return of Hyatt Regency to Sydney

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Commercial property sale in the Gold Coast fell in the three months to December 2016, according to CoreLogic's Cityscope.
The property data firm says 41 sales were recorded during the period for a total of $60 million.
Of this, $21.3 million was for commercial, $11.5 million was for commercial strata, $12.9 million was for retail, $5.9 million was for retail strata and $8.4 million was for other.
In comparison, the three months to late June 2016 recorded 53 sales for a total of $99.8 million.
Of this, $34.2 million was for commercial, $12.2 million was for commercial strata, $22.8 million was for retail, $5.4 million was for retail strata and $25.3 million was for other.
The latest data raises the 12 month total to over $587.2 million, over $202.8 million lower than the previous 12 month period.
The table below shows sales recorded for the past eight updates of Gold Coast Cityscope:
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/24/Gold%20Coast-1.jpeg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/01/24/Gold%20Coast-1.jpeg" alt="">
The three most significant sales recorded this quarter together totalled over $21.9 million:
<ul>
<li>KRG Centre, 9-15 Bay Street, Southport – a four-level office building with a cafe. Sold for $12 million to Lionsgate Income Fund No 1 Pty Ltd as trustee for the Lionsgate Income Fund No 1 Unit Trust. Kevin Lonard and Darrell Woodfield of First National Commercial Gold Coast negotiated the sale, which represented an initial yield of 8.3% on passing income of $996,000.</li>
<li>Windmill Centre, 130 Scarborough Street, Southport – a two-level office and retail building with frontages to both Scarborough Street and Windmill Street. Bought for $5 millionby Grand Southport Two Pty Ltd as trustee for the Lawson Unit Trust. Adam Grbcic and Tony Grbcic of Ray White Commercial GC South negotiated the sale, which represented an initial yield of 7.2% on passing income of $360,000.</li>
<li>Robina Professional Centre, 36 Laver Drive, Robina – a four-storey office building completed in late 2006. Bought for $4.925 million by RPA Properties Pty Ltd. Mason Kidman and Nick Selbie of CBRE Gold Coast negotiated the sale.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/24/Gold%20Coast-2.jpeg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/01/24/Gold%20Coast-2.jpeg" alt="">
Properties currently listed for sale include:
<ul>
<li>3286 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise – a single-level, 277 sqm restaurant building. For sale by negotiation; agent, Ray White Commercial Gold Coast (Simon Robertson).</li>
<li>8 Frigo Court, Bundall – a 2,429 sqm vacant block of land. For sale by expressions of interest; agent, First National Real Estate Surfers (Rob Rollington and Bob Rollington).</li>
<li>SteelX House, 2 Boston Court, Varsity Lakes – a four-storey office building comprised of three separate units. For sale by expressions of interest; agent, CBRE (Peter Court, Mike Walsh and Brad Duncalfe). The property was initially advertised with passing income of $1,276,140 per annum (net).</li>
</ul>
Properties currently under contract (conditionally or unconditionally) include:
<ul>
<li>46 Scottsdale Drive, Robina – a 4,719 sqm vacant block of land with approval to build the third and final stage of Easy T. Under contract; agents, Robina Marketing Australia (Marcus Weld) and Knight Frank Gold Coast (James Branch and Mark Witheriff).</li>
<li>Piazza on the Boulevard, 3197 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise – a four-level retail and commercial building. Due diligence is currently being conducted; agent, CBRE Gold Coast (Jonathan O’Brien and Scott Gray-Spencer).</li>
<li>1 Bellvue Drive, Varsity Lakes – RP1 Building, a three-storey, split-level office building. Under conditional contract; agent, CBRE Gold Coast (Jonathan O’Brien and Brad Duncalfe).</li>
</ul>
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Gold Coast commercial property sales fell in quarter ended December: Cityscope

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GUEST OBSERVER
Despite a terrible start to the year and a few political surprises along the way, 2016 saw good returns for diversified investors who held their nerve.
Balanced super funds had returns around 7.5 percent, which is pretty good given inflation was just 1.5 percent. 2017 is commencing with less fear than seen a year ago but there is consternation regarding Donald Trump’s policies, political developments in Europe and the growth outlook.
This note provides a summary of key insights on the global investment outlook and key issues around it in simple dot point form.
Seven lessons from 2016
<ol>
<li>Global growth may be constrained – but it’s far stronger and more resilient than was feared at the start of 2016.</li>
<li>The US Federal Reserve is not stupid - it is not on “rate hike autopilot” and takes account of global conditions and the $US and the impact of both on the US.</li>
<li>China won't tolerate a rapid slowing in economic growth - yes it wants to reform the supply side of its economy and slow down the growth of debt but it will not do so blindly.</li>
<li>Geopolitics is having a rising impact on investment markets – in part a populist backlash against establishment politics with implications for economic policy, eg, globalisation.</li>
<li>But, turn down the noise - fears that Brexit, Australia's messy election, a Trump victory and an Italian "No" vote would lead to financial catastrophe proved ill-founded. Retreating to cash after these would have been costly.</li>
<li>The terror threat is alive and well but the impact on investment markets is limited.</li>
<li>Stick to an investment strategy - 2016 proved distracting for investors but they would have done okay provided they stuck to an investment strategy that prevented them from getting blown around by swings in market sentiment.</li>
</ol>
Key themes for 2017
Global growth of around 3.2 percent or just above, with the US around 2.5 percent, Europe and Japan lagging and China running around 6.5 percent. Australian growth of around 2.5 percent.
A gradual rise in underlying inflation, albeit from low levels.
Global monetary conditions remaining easy but less so, with gradual monetary tightening in the US and China offset by ongoing easing in Europe, Japan and Australia.
Reflecting this, global shares are likely to trend higher and we favour Europe and Japan over the US (which may be constrained after its 2016 outperformance and Fed hikes).
 Australian shares are likely to have solid returns as resource sector profits surge following the rebound in bulk commodity prices, overall profits rise 10 percent and interest rates remain low.
 Still low yields and capital losses from a gradual rise in bond yields are likely to see low returns from bonds.
 Commercial property and infrastructure are likely to continue benefitting from investors’ ongoing search for yield, but this demand will wane as bond yields trend higher.
 Australian capital city residential property price gains are expected to slow to around 3-4%, as the heat comes out of the Sydney and Melbourne markets and rising supply hits.
 Cash and bank deposit returns will remain poor.
 The downtrend in the $A from 2011 is likely to continue as the interest rate differential in favour of Australia narrows and it undertakes its usual undershoot of fair value.
Key risks for 2017
 President Trump could set off a global trade war and wider political tensions with China (eg, in the South China Sea).
 US fiscal stimulus under Trump could overheat the US economy resulting in an aggressive Fed &amp; a further rebound in the $US causing problems for emerging countries.
 A further rapid rise in bond yields would be bad for shares and assets that have benefitted from the search for yield including real estate and infrastructure investments.
 Success by populist parties in Europe could reignite Eurozone break up fears.
 China could have its long feared hard landing.  Australia could be vulnerable as apartment supply surgesand housing construction slows.
 Factor X – there is always something from left field. Last year it was the rise of populism in some Anglo countries.
Five things to watch
<ol>
<li>  President Trump - whether we get Trump the pragmatist or Trump the populist.</li>
<li>  US inflation and the Fed – how quickly both move up.</li>
<li>  Elections in the Netherlands in March, France in April/May,</li>
<li>  Germany around September and possibly in Italy.</li>
<li>  Global business conditions indicators (PMIs). </li>
</ol>
Business confidence &amp; non-mining investment in Australia.
Three reasons why global growth is likely to continue
<ol>
<li>We have not seen the excesses (massive debt growth, overinvestment, plunging spare capacity or excessive inflation) that normally precede recessions.</li>
<li>The US monetary tightening cycle is in its very early stages and global monetary conditions are still very easy.</li>
<li>Fiscal austerity has faded and we are seeing early signs of a shift from monetary easing (which arguably has become less potent) to fiscal stimulus.</li>
</ol>
 Three reasons to expect Trump the pragmatist to ultimately take precedence  
<ol>
<li>Donald Trump’s anti-establishment mandate, bellicose approach and inexperience will no doubt continue to create much uncertainty about his policies in the short term. His war with the media, issues around Russia and potential conflicts of interest add to the risks. However, there are reasons to expect that on the policy front pragmatism will ultimately prevail with the focus being on the growth boosting potential of tax cuts, infrastructure spending and deregulation:</li>
<li>Economic and political realities (including Congress) invariably take some of the edge off more radical policies once politicians attain power.</li>
<li>Trump has a focus on growth and jobs and won’t want to threaten this which suggests pragmatic policy outcomes.</li>
</ol>
As a businessman he is likely to ultimately seek win/win solutions with other countries (notably China) even though he may use a bellicose negotiating stance.  Three reasons why Chinese growth will likely come in around 6.5 percent and not much lower. Stimulus measures over the last two years highlight the government has no tolerance for a collapse in growth.
The services sector is taking over from manufacturing.
Deflation is receding as indicated by rising producer prices. Three reasons why geopolitics is more important
The slow post GFC recovery, rising inequality in some countries and stress around immigration are leading to a backlash against establishment politicians.
The relative decline of the US is shifting us away from the unipolar world that dominated post the Cold War (where the US was the world's cop) to a less stable multi-polar world (where skirmishes and proxy wars are more common). The symbiotic relationship between the US and China is fading.
  The information revolution is enabling us to make our own reality, with the decline of traditional media in favour of online news sources that can be less reliable or self- selected. Conspiracy theories go mainstream!  Four reasons why the Eurozone won't break up  Eurozone break up fears will again feature with elections in the Netherlands, France and Germany and maybe Italy. But there are three reasons why it won't break up... well at least not yet:
  Most of Europe does not have the problems with inequality that have helped drive Brexit and Trump.
  Eurozone break up risk arguably peaked a few years ago when austerity and unemployment were at their peak.
  Support for Eurosceptic parties has not picked up significantly since Brexit and Trump and support for the Euro in mainstream Europe remains high.  
Five reasons why Australia won't have a recession
<ol>
<li>  Interest rates can still fall further if needed.</li>
<li>  The drag on the economy from falling mining investment is  fading and should bottom in the next year or so.</li>
<li> National income is rising thanks to rising commodity prices.</li>
<li> Sectors such as tourism and higher education (both helped by the lower $A) along with state capital spending should help offset the gap left by slowing housing investment</li>
<li> Stronger export volumes (from resource projects) will provide a partial offset to lower commodity prices.</li>
</ol>
Five reasons the RBA is more likely to cut than hike
<ol>
<li> The outlook for business investment is still weak.</li>
<li> To offset a slowing contribution to growth from housing.</li>
<li>The $A needs to fall further.</li>
<li>To offset the monetary tightening from bank mortgage rate hikes for existing home owners.</li>
<li>Inflation is likely to remain below target for longer.</li>
</ol>
Three reasons why the super cycle bond bull market from the early 1980s is likely over
<ol>
<li>  Deflation is waning with commodity prices hitting bottom.</li>
<li>  Global spare capacity is gradually being used up.</li>
<li>  Bonds are over-loved having benefitted from a huge flow out of equities since the GFC.</li>
</ol>
Five reasons why shares are likely to provide decent returns by year end
<ol>
<li> Shares are not overvalued against still low bond yields and interest rates.</li>
<li> A global recession looks a long way away.</li>
<li> A pick up in global growth should help profits.</li>
<li> Monetary conditions are still very easy and while the Fed will continue to tighten other central banks are still easing.</li>
<li> There is a lot of pessimism around.</li>
</ol>
...but three reasons to expect continued volatility
<ol>
<li> Much uncertainty remains in the short term around President Trump’s policies.</li>
<li> Geopolitical risks could flare up – particularly between the US and China and in Europe.</li>
<li> Shares are not dirt cheap anymore.</li>
</ol>
Nine things investors should remember
<ol>
<li>  The power of compound returns – saving regularly in growth assets can grow wealth substantially over long periods. Using the “rule of 72” it will take 29 years to double an asset’s value if it returns 2.5% pa (ie 72/2.5) but only 9 years if the asset returns 8% pa.</li>
<li>  The cycle lives on – markets cycle up and down and we need to allow for it and not get thrown off by rough patches.</li>
<li>  Diversify – don’t put all your eggs in one basket.</li>
<li>  Turn down the noise – this was a big one in 2016 where the noise around political events really just created distractions.</li>
<li>  Starting point valuations matter – for example low bond yields will mean low medium term bond returns.</li>
<li>  Remember that while shares can be volatile, the income stream from a diversified portfolio of shares is more stable over time and higher than the income from bank deposits.</li>
<li>  Avoid the crowd – at extremes it’s invariably wrong.</li>
<li>  Focus on investments providing sustainable and decent cash flows – not financial engineering. </li>
<li>  Accept that it’s a low nominal return world – when inflation is 2% a 7.2% super return (the average for balanced growth super funds over the last three years) is pretty good. </li>
</ol>
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<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://plus.google.com/110172465327488162875?rel=author" target="_blank">SHANE OLIVER</a> is head of investment strategy and economics and chief economist at <a href="https://www.ampcapital.com.au/home" target="_blank">AMP Capital</a> and is responsible for AMP Capital's diversified investment funds.
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soliver-smf6LQXgW9

Why housing adds vulnerability to Australia's macro investment outlook: Shane Oliver 

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Come in spinner or should that be spinners?
In a property week that can only be described as unprecedented we have had the prime minister, treasurer and newly elected NSW premier all declare that they are going to tackle housing affordability.
Previously housing affordability was a bit like going to your doctor for the annual check-up where after your consultation you advise the doctor that you don’t need to see the results. For years and years, our elected politicians have refused point blank to accept any responsibility for being the actual cause of this problem.
The new premier is already stumbling and stuttering where she stated that the heart of the problem is supply so NSW must build more properties. We all know that, this is only a part of the problem, so then the remedies moved to negative gearing (a federal problem) which explains why the prime minister has been silent following his announcement that he too, will personally pursue the housing affordability issues in Australia.
Next, the premier stated that she needed to make sure that the state’s finances are in order before she considers changing stamp duty. I would refer the premier to her media release on December 15, 2016. “NSW has recorded the lowest unemployment rate of the nation for 18 consecutive months and has widened its lead over the next strongest state, the latest ABS data shows. Our unemployment rate is by far the lowest in the nation and demonstrates our economic strength.”
Of course, the premier may always wish to investigate just why in Sydney we presently have public transport considered to be amongst the worst in the world. Back in November 2012 a global survey of 27 of the most important cities in the world ranked Sydney as fourth – worst for public transport. To make matters worse the survey also identified that Sydneysiders pay more for public transport than anywhere else.
Despite that embarrassing finding where our public transport would be even worse since that survey NSW continues to attract more than 50 per cent of the residential investment spend in Australia. On top of that it was revealed this week that the Sydney median house price had climbed a further ten percent in 2016 to now sit at $1,123,991 – another new record.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/29/Investor-Lending.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/01/29/Investor-Lending.png" alt="">
Most people already know the answer to Australia’s housing affordability woes – look no further than the Henry Tax Review that was commissioned back in 2008 then published in 2010 only to be ignored by elected politicians because it was too hard and significantly threatened their parliamentary pensions. The report consisted of nine broad themes with point 8 stating – “Toward more affordable housing: substantially increase rent assistance, gradually move to a uniform land tax and remove transfer taxes (stamp duty), and gradually move to a neutral treatment of rental and owner – occupied housing.”
The Henry Tax Review has now come back with a vengeance and deservedly biting our politicians where it hurts. Although the real reason why NSW refuses to make changes to Stamp Duty is succinctly explained in the following graph.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/29/NSW-Stamp-Duty.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/01/29/NSW-Stamp-Duty.png" alt="">
In Australia, currently the Top 10 taxes deliver 90 per cent of Australia’s taxation revenues. Three of the state taxes are in the Top 10 taxes by revenue collected, although these three state taxes are at the bottom of the Top 10 and represent less than 11 per cent of all tax revenues.
Many simply say increase the taxes for foreign buyers, although there are major issues on that horizon when this week two major Chinese private providers of home price data stopped publishing figures so what’s happening to the home-grown Chinese property markets? The Chinese Index Academy stopped distributing monthly housing price data for 100 cities which was usually made available at the commencement of each month. The Academy told Reuters last Friday, it had suspended distribution indefinitely and then politely declined to provide a reason.
Coincidentally on New Year’s Eve the Chinese government issued a statement that effectively makes it much harder for Chinese investors to now get their money out of China. In an email I received on January 5 here are the key points.
<ul>
<li>The individual annual foreign exchange purchase quota of $50,000 is unchanged.</li>
<li>Banks are “encouraged” to increase scrutiny of currency transfers.</li>
<li>Banks must report any overseas transfers by individuals of US$10,000 or more.</li>
<li>Starting in July 2017, banks and other financial institutions in China will have to report all domestic and overseas cash transactions of more than 50,000 yuan ($7,201), compared with the current amount of 200,000 yuan.</li>
<li>Beijing is signalling to banks, companies and individuals that it disapproves of foreign spending and investment, except for a few purposes that are explicitly defined by the government (e.g. buying foreign-made machinery to increase the efficiency of a Chinese factory).</li>
<li>Overseas property investment has been called out by at least one major Chinese bank as insufficient reason for transferring money abroad.</li>
</ul>
With great interest, we shall watch very carefully how the Chinese buyers perform in 2017 especially as very little (actually nothing) has been written on these forced changes by the Chinese government.
Housing affordability will be major election issues at forthcoming state and federal elections and that could not happen to a nicer group of politicians who have been complicit by neglecting these issues for decades.
Oh and on Australia Day, 2014 Mosman had 68 houses on the market, 2015 it fell to 58, then in 2016 it fell to 45 and this week it’s 25.
ROBERT SIMEON is a director of <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" target="_blank" title="RWM" rel="nofollow">Richardson Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay</a> and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985. 
He has also been writing real estate blog <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" target="_blank" title="Virtual Realty News" rel="nofollow">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000.
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Politicians to battle housing affordability - an oxymoron? Robert Simeon

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Investors snapped up 20 Gold Coast auction offerings ahead of Ray White's scheduled one-day Gold Coast sale named The Event, held on Sunday. 
The Event was scheduled to auction 115 properties in one day. 
Listings were up from 98 last year. Auction organisers confirmed 300 plus registered bidders for the event.
Attendees noted there were signs of caution among buyers with around 39 out of the initial 75 properties auctioned finding buyers.
Final sales figures were still being tallied late Sunday, with preliminary estimates showing a clearance rate of around 51 per cent.
The 20 pre-auction sales showed investors were full of confidence about the region, Ray White Surfers Paradise chief executive Andrew Bell said.
Sales included a five-bedroom house at 22 Yacht Street in Southport for $1.56 million. Another was a three-bedroom townhouse at 5212 Marine Drive West in Sanctuary Cove sold for $800,000. 
"It's slightly more [presales] than last year," Andrew Bell told The Australian Financial Review.
Sales under the hammer included a two-bedroom apartment in a late 1980s apartment building at 25/3510 Main Beach Parade, Main Beach. It sold for $1.3 million, which was less than the $1,415,000 it fetched in 2007.
A penthouse in the Paloma building at 11/93 Albatross Avenue, Mermaid Beach, sold for $1.6 million.
A three-bedroom apartment at 274/1 Serisier Avenue, Main Beach sold for $1.1 million, below the $1,510,000 it sold for in pre-global financial crisis 2007. 
Unlike prior years, the weekend auction only had a few prestige offerings, which was an initiative of Mr Bell.
Last year's top sale was a boat from their marine sales division.
However a four-bedroom home at 76 Admiralty Drive, Paradise Waters sold for $3.5 million.  
Today’s sale of number 76, which was featured on the cover of the Gold Coast Bulletin’s real estate magazine, will see its Brunei-based owners farewell their holiday home of 17 years.
Set on a 792sq m, the residence features Versace-esque drapes, chandeliers and gold finishes throughout.
RWSP selling agent Jackson Paradise said the seller works in the hotel industry in Brunei but his children live and study in Brisbane.
There was also a vacant 835-square-metre block of Paradise Waters riverfront land sold for $2.85 million. 
Among the cheapest was a one-bedroom apartment at 15/3355 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfer Paradise, that sold for $218,000.
The $295 a week rental last sold at $320,000 in 2010.
The villa on The Parkway, Sanctuary Cove (pictured top above) remains for sale. It last traded in 2007 at $1.95 million. 
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Gold Coast offerings go under the auction hammer at Ray White's The Event

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The development company, Future Estate has finalised a $12.8 million Coburg sale of three lots totalling 9,203sqm of its larger Pentridge Prison site.
The holding sits amid the substantive urban renewal project, Coburg Quarter.
The purchaser, Golden Sunrise secured permits for 294 apartments across three buildings.
Future Estate purchased the distressed asset from receivers three years ago for $4 million.
“When we purchased the former Pentridge Prison site in 2014, our valuations estimated we had secured it for a third of its market value,” said Future Estate managing director, Ben Anderson.
“Now, 18 months on, we have this sale and the 250 per cent return on investment it produced to verify our initial calculations – the site which we acquired for 30c on the dollar, is actually worth $73 million.”
One Coburg Quarter, Fuure Estate's first residential building is 90 per cent sold off market.
One Coburg Quarter has 148 apartments.
Future Estate’s masterplan will see the developer transform the remaining portion of its 4.2ha site into a mixed-use residential community in which open civic spaces, professional services, a diverse retail offering and a new eat street.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/25/Future%20Estate_Coburg%20Quarter%20development%20overview.jpg" alt="">
“This sale not only means our debt is reduced, it means we are able to reinvest in other ventures within the precinct and deliver the extensive public amenities we have planned, which include a micro-brewery and wine bar, up front,” said Anderson.
"Rather than have these three permit-approved sites sit there for 36 – 48 months until we are in a position to develop them, we have chosen to bring in another developer, with whom we can work simultaneously to make this community a reality."
The sale was through Colliers International and Savills.
The property was listed as for sale by expressions of interest, closing on August 10.
Future Estate and fellow developer Shayher Group own the former prison, which was once home to notorious inmates such as Ned Kelly and Squizzy Taylor.
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Pentridge Prison development site sold by Future Estate for $12.8 million

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As of 1 January 2017, the West Australian government’s FHOG was increased by $5000 to $15,000 for eligible buyers.
First-time home owners buying or building a new home may apply for a grant of up to $10,000.
Contracts signed between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017 may be eligible for an additional boost payment of $5,000.
Buyers can receive up to $15,000 towards your first home, without having to pay stamp duty.
The FHOG only applies to new residential dwellings – not established homes.
For more information about the FHOG and your eligibility, download the <a href="https://www.finance.wa.gov.au/cms/uploadedFiles/_State_Revenue/FHOG/FHOG_Fact_Sheet.pdf" target="_blank">FHOG fact sheet</a>.
For a contract to build a home, construction must commence within 26 weeks of entering the building contract and be completed within 18 months after construction commences.
For owner-builders, construction must be completed by 30 June 2019.
The purchase of a new home ‘off-the-plan’ will be eligible if construction is completed by 30 June 2019.
As with the old grant, the boost will be paid for homes up to the value of $750,000 (or up to $1 million if the home is located north of the 26th parallel).
The <a href="https://www.housing.wa.gov.au/housingoptions/homeownershipoptions/KeyStart/Pages/default.aspxhttp:/www.keystart.com.au/" target="_blank">Keystart</a>, WA government initiative also provides first-time Western Australian investors.
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The West Australian First Home Buyers Grant boost 

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<div>Within the Consumer Price Index figures, the ABS produces some very useful quality-adjusted figures on rental price inflation. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The data series shows how rents can rise very fast when investors are spooked out of the market, such as between 1985 and 1987 (changes to tax legislation) and 2008 (global financial crisis).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>When investor activity is high, on the other hand, the growth in rents is likely to be weaker, and this is also the case when low interest rates make buying a home comparatively more attractive than renting. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>In this context, nationally annual rental price growth is at its lowest level in more than 22 years, at 0.6 per cent.</div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TapbS0WJLJA/WIiHzukMDfI/AAAAAAAAhak/ndXk6_mJwuYkNIMYlgamcTe_ZXRg6mH3QCLcB/s1600/A5.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TapbS0WJLJA/WIiHzukMDfI/AAAAAAAAhak/ndXk6_mJwuYkNIMYlgamcTe_ZXRg6mH3QCLcB/s640/A5.jpg" width="640" height="340"></a> In Perth, annual rental growth has turned negative to the tune of -7.2 per cent. 
<div><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uEibKl7v3wA/WIiHzuEUPiI/AAAAAAAAhag/SXTXMTsRc6glPmclKzhWpDZgTpWppJaLgCLcB/s1600/A3.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uEibKl7v3wA/WIiHzuEUPiI/AAAAAAAAhag/SXTXMTsRc6glPmclKzhWpDZgTpWppJaLgCLcB/s640/A3.jpg" width="640" height="352"></a></div>
 
<div>Darwin is by some margin the weakest rental market, with rents declining by -8.2 per cent in 2016.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>On the other side of the ledger, Hobart is the tightest capital city rental market, with quality-adjusted rents increasing by 3.5 per cent in 2016. </div>
 
<div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxoHSu6V94w/WIiHzDbkYtI/AAAAAAAAhac/dxkvE9U8dU8nCp-g_SVnqVl0DqN1_KvIgCLcB/s1600/A4.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxoHSu6V94w/WIiHzDbkYtI/AAAAAAAAhac/dxkvE9U8dU8nCp-g_SVnqVl0DqN1_KvIgCLcB/s640/A4.jpg" width="640" height="358"></a></div>
 
<div>A look at the long-run figures shows that despite the supply response real rents in both Sydney and Melbourne continued to rise to all-time highs. </div>
 
<div><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4bBihfkI2e8/WIiH0l1XAdI/AAAAAAAAhao/x9GcxFT-oyogKdHKJnWFu4ENGUXxTHbPQCLcB/s1600/A6.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4bBihfkI2e8/WIiH0l1XAdI/AAAAAAAAhao/x9GcxFT-oyogKdHKJnWFu4ENGUXxTHbPQCLcB/s640/A6.jpg" width="640" height="340"></a></div>
 In real terms, at the city level Brisbane rents are certain to move lower in 2017 due to the inner city apartments overbuild. 
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>.
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Where capital city rents are falling further in 2017: Pete Wargent

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GUEST OBSERVER
The appointment of Gladys Berejiklian as NSW Premier and her suggestion to review all options to address housing affordability should provide some optimism for a generation of young Australians who have a very real fear that owning their own home is fast (if not already) slipping beyond their reach.
As it stands, in Sydney the average home costs 12 times the average household income (20 years ago this was only four times), stamp duty tax has increased by a jaw-dropping 750 per cent over that same period in NSW and while building approvals in metropolitan areas is on the rise, lower interest and strong population growth have combined to increase demand for property faster than we can supply them. Throw this all into a melting pot and what we are left with is; a housing affordability crisis.
So in search of answers, LJ Hooker conducted a survey of more than 2,600 property owners which found that stamp duty was a major factor in the decision making process for those looking to sell and buy property.
The survey found that 51 percent of home owners that received an appraisal by a real estate agent but did not subsequently list their property for sale, would, in fact, do so if stamp duty was lower. This figure rose to 61 per cent if stamp duty was abolished altogether.
These numbers highlight the chokehold the current stamp duty tax has on the secondary market; Australians families would like to sell, move and relocate but cannot afford the cost of transacting. According to our data the reduction or removal of stamp duty will see more properties come onto the market, which in turn will help balance the current supply and demand issue.
But solving housing affordability is not a one-step process, nor is there one bandaid answer. Instead, state and federal governments should work together to look at a number of solutions which could elevate housing stress, so our children’s children will be able to afford property in all the major cities across Australia.
Here at LJ Hooker, we think these changes to the below three policy areas will help the likes of Premier Berejiklian, and her kin across Australia solve housing affordability issues:
1. Affordable housing
Recent strong price growth across our capital cities has seen low-income and essential service workers such as teachers, nurses and emergency service workers priced out of most inner city markets. However, these areas still require the services that these workers provide.
The provision of affordable housing for these low and middle-income families is required to ensure a diverse range of households have access to housing across all areas of our capital cities. 
However, at present, it has not been feasible for developers to provide affordable solutions. The government, therefore, needs to step in with incentives to ensure the delivery of affordable housing can occur. After all having nurses live near hospitals, and teachers live near schools just makes sense.
2. Removal of stamp duty
The high cost of selling, buying and moving home has reached a point where people are reconsidering and/or delaying their next property move. Recent strong price growth, and the fact that stamp duty is calculated on the value of the property, means that it has reached a point where it is having a big impact on the budgets of property buyers.
The scrapping of stamp duty would directly assist housing affordability by helping increase the mobility of the population and encourage owner-occupiers to upsize and downgrade into a property that suits their changing needs without being slogged with an exorbitant tax. This will insure more properties become available for sale, helping balance supply with demand and insuring more families get to grow up in their home of choice.
3. Regionalisation and decentralisation of government services and businesses
The growing population across all capital cities and the increasing cost of providing infrastructure to the masses mean that decentralisation of businesses, households and government departments is becoming essential.
With more than 90 per cent of the Australian population living in capital cities, there is a need to incentivise businesses to relocate, or start-up, some or all, of their business in our major and minor regional centres.
This regionalisation will boost the economies of these smaller regions and provide employees access to more affordable housing in these areas. It will also elevate some stress and demand on infrastructure, services and housing in capital cities.
We look to our politicians and decision makers to take these policies under consideration. Inaction will only perpetuate the issues faced by Australian families. Their needs to be decisive structural change to make the long-held Australian dream of home ownership a reality for all Australian families and individuals. 
Grant Harrod is chief executive officer of JL Hooker and can be contacted <a href="https://about.ljhooker.com.au/leadership-team" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Three solutions to the housing affordability crisis: LJ Hooker's Grant Harrod

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Melbourne developers Salvo Property Group has purchased a site with pre-existing permit for four residential towers in Melbourne's Fishermans Bendin a deal rumoured to be more than $40 million.
The 9,766sqm site, 60-82 Johnston Street, South Melbourne, was sold by vendor Bill McNee through Colliers International.
The property has plans and permits for more than 1,300 apartments in four towers designed by Rothelowman.
There will be two high-rise towers (46 and 43 storeys) and two medium-rise towers (27 and 21 storeys).
Agent Daniel Wolman said 60-82 Johnson Street in South Melbourne will be one of the largest mixed-used complexes within Fishermans Bend.
“Salvo’s success in Southbank will continue in Fishermans Bend, bringing not only residential apartments to the area, but also supermarkets, retail shops, offices and other amenities," he said.
“We were managing interest and offers from several Asian developers, particularly from China, Malaysia and Singapore.
“However, the local developers saw the potential in this premium inner-city location immediately and acted accordingly, which is testament to the strength of the Melbourne market.
“This project is situated within one of Australia’s most dynamic urban renewal development precincts and as such, it was an opportunity for someone to create a flagship project."
 
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