For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

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

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

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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Geelong once again takes top spot as the regional region with the highest auction clearance rate, according to CoreLogic’s latest weekly report.
The property advisory firm says that out of the 34 auctions known in Geelong 85 percent were sold.
<a href="/images/2016/11/21/Regional%20regions.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/21/Regional%20regions.jpg" alt="">
This is followed by Wollongong with 71 percent and the Hunter region with 67%.
The lowest region was the Gold Coast where only 54 percent were sold under the hammer.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Gold Coast lowest regional region with only 54% of auctions sold: CoreLogic

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The Adelaide industrial markets have continued to see improvements in vacancy over the first half with vacancy falling to 4.8 percent, down from five percent six months ago, according to Colliers International’s latest report.
Leasing enquiry has also continued to improve with several large requirements in the market which are unlikely to be satisfied with current supply.
This is likely to lead to further design and construct activity in 2017 and into 2018.
One of the largest pre-commitments in the Adelaide industrial market for many years was secured and is under construction in Gillman for a 20,000sqm facility for a Multinational Corporate Client.
On the investment side, there has been limited activity in the market above $5 million price bracket with total sales volume of $50.1 million year to date which is about half of the 10 year average for sales.
Sales below $5 million has seen more activity with owner occupiers being the most active purchaser group in the market.
There has also been an improvement in enquiry to purchase industrial property which is likely to lead to higher sales volumes through the last quarter and into next year.
This has been driven by the low interest rate environment and the opportunity to purchase a facility through a superannuation vehicle or through the business.
This shift has impacted leasing activity with a number of leasing appointments transferring to sales campaigns.
The awarding of the submarines contract to DCNS earlier this year and the building of the o shore patrol vessels in the short term has seen Adelaide become the defence hub in Australia.
The total defence spend for the Federal government is over $90 billion, with a signi cant amount of construction of these projects to occur in Adelaide. This has ensured that there is a future for the defence sector in Adelaide for the next decade and beyond.
Although it is still early in the project, it is expected that there will be several requirements for the construction of new facilities for the submarines project.
The Federal government has invested in the Centre for Defence Capability in Adelaide which will drive innovation in the defence sector as well as open up international opportunities for the defence sector.
This centre is based in Adelaide with a 10 year $230 million federal commitment to grow the defence sector. This sector is likely to drive demand with the current facilities unlikely to meet the demand for this project and hence it is likely to result in construction of new facilities, mostly likely in the northern markets.
Vacancy in the Outer North market has recorded the lowest vacancy rate of all of the precincts with a vacancy rate of 2.8 per cent. This is a dramatic turn-around from 12 months ago where vacancy was recorded at 19.9 per cent.
The Outer North market has the highest exposure to the closure of the Holden plant expected late in 2017, and the high vacancy recorded 12 months ago was a result of several suppliers vacating upon the announcement of the closure.
The Outer North has seen five sales transactions over the last three months with two investment sales and three vacant possession sales which were purchased for owner occupation.
The owner occupier sales were originally listed as leasing opportunities.
The Outer North industrial market are offering very competitive rents for a prime grade buildings and is therefore are an attractive option for tenants.
Prime rents have stabilised over the last 12 months and incentives have also remained stable and therefore there is limited change in effective rents over the last 12 months.
The Outer North market has undergone this significant correction in rental and incentives which has impacted on overall vacancy over the last two years and although there is still likely to be some further vacancy when Holden closes, it is unlikely to be as significantly affected as first predicted.
Despite this there are still some head winds in this precinct with the closure of Holden due in late 2017 as they are the largest occupier in the area.
A number of strategic discussions around the closure of the site have mooted several opportunities, however it remains to be seen what will happen with the Elizabeth site and the surrounding area.
It is clear from recent activity and the significant drop in vacancy rates in the precinct that occupiers, landlords and owners are reacting well in advance of the closure benefiting the whole market.
The next two stages of the upgrade of the north south corridor has commenced.
The Torrens to Torrens project addresses the 3.7 kilometre section of South Road between the Torrens River and Torrens River.
The scope of this project includes the lowering of a 2.5 km section of road, an overpass of the Outer Harbor line and upgrades to the to Torrens Road, Hawker Street, Hurtle Street, Port Road, Grange Road/Manton Street and Ashwin Parade/ West Thebarton Road intersections. This road will have no traffic lights and will see three lanes run in both directions and is due to complete in 2018.
The Darlington upgrade project has commenced construction which will address the section of Main South Road between the Southern Expressway and Ayliffes Road. This will connect the Tonsley site to Flinders University with joint federal and state funding to extend the Tonsley line from the current terminus at Tonsley to the Flinders Medical centre and the Flinders University.
The State and Federal governments recently announced joint funding of $985 million of for the Northern Connector project. This will join the Northern Expressway, Port Wakefield Road, South Road Expressway and the Port River Expressway and will bypass six busy intersections along South Road.
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Vacancy continues to fall across all markets in Adelaide

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A quality standalone building at 7 Redland Drive, Mitcham was has been sold by CVA to a local investor for $2,300,000.00, equating to a building rate of $2, 575.59 per sqm.
The property was leased at a rental of $135,000 pa representing a yield of just under 6 percent.
The property comprised a total lettable area of 893m2, with clear span warehouse and office.
Its truck access was from Redland Drive, just off Mitcham Road, allowing easy access to Canterbury Road, Whitehorse Road and Eastlink.
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Quality standalone building at Mitcham sold

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A substantial industrial facility at 89 Lewis Road, Wantirna South was sold by CVA in conjunction with Appleby Real Estate by a deadline sale for $6,450,000.
A number of offers were received from both local and offshore prospective purchasers, with a successful offer being accepted from a Hong Kong based investment group, representing a yield of 6.82 percent.
Comprising a total building area of 7,912m2 and situated on a huge site area of 1.8 hectares, the property provides a generous 90 metre frontage to Lewis Road and features substantial industrial improvements, incorporating a large power supply, hard stand area and multiple RSD.
The property is leased to two well known tenants Australia Post and Silvan Australia returning a combined annual rental of $440,283.50 pa net. In addition it also features further upside with the potential to develop into a business park in the future STPA.
Providing easy access to major roads including Stud Road, Burwood Highway and Mountain Highway, the subject property is located 5kms to Eastlink, under 2kms to Westfield Knox and just metres to Lewis Park.
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Substantial industrial facility at Wantirna South sold

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The combined capital city clearance rate remains above 70 percent, despite auction volumes trending higher, according to CoreLogic’s latest weekly report.
The property advisory firm says that there were 2,950 auctions held across the combined capital cities, with week-on-week results showing an increase over the 2,897 reported capital city auctions last week.
With the number of auctions tracking at the highest level since March, there has been no indication that clearance rates are starting to ease as we approach summer.
<a href="/images/2016/11/21/Capital%20city%20auction.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/21/Capital%20city%20auction.jpg" alt="">
However, when compared to last year, auction volumes continue to track lower with vendors still seemingly reluctant to place their properties on the market despite such strong selling conditions.
There were 3,166 auctions reported over the corresponding week last year, with a clearance rate of 59.5 percent, which is a substantially lower rate of clearance when compared to the higher rate that has remained consistent since July.
<a href="/images/2016/11/21/Weekly%20clearance%20rate.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/21/Weekly%20clearance%20rate.jpg" alt="">
This week’s preliminary clearance rate remains over 70.0 percent (75.6 percent), decreasing slightly over last week’s final clearance rate of 75.8 percent.
<a href="/images/2016/11/21/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/21/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%202.jpg" alt="">
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Combined capital city clearance rate remains above 70 percent: CoreLogic

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The city, Inner South, North Sydney and Hornsby all had high auction clearance rates in Sydney, according to CoreLogic’s latest weekly report.
The property advisory firm says that all of these regions had an auction clearance rate of 90 percent plus.
<a href="/images/2016/11/21/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%20Sydney.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/21/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%20Sydney.jpg" alt="">
This is followed by both the Eastern Suburbs and Inner West with 89% and Northern Beaches with 88%.
<a href="/images/2016/11/21/Sydney%20sub%20regions.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/21/Sydney%20sub%20regions.jpg" alt="">
The region with the lowest clearance rate was the South West where only 54 percent of the 44 auctions known to CoreLogic were sold.
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90 percent of weekend auctions in four Sydney regions sold under the hammer: CoreLogic

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The Melbourne and Sydney auction market in Sydney is strong leading into this weekend's spring Super Saturday sales given the current weekend results.
Domain's Andrew Wilson said the Sydney auction has maintained its boom-time seller momentum during spring, despite the usual surge in late season listing numbers.
"More than 760 homes were scheduled to go under the hammer on Saturday, which was similar to the previous weekend’s figures but again lower than the 863 listed over the same weekend last year," he said.
"Sydney recorded a weekend clearance rate of 79.5 percent, which was similar to the previous Saturday’s 80.4 percent and significantly higher than the 57.5 percent recorded over the same weekend last year.
"The inner suburban and higher-priced suburban regions again produced exceptional results at the weekend, with a number of clearance rates exceeding 90 percent.
"The top performer was the ever-reliable inner west with a 91 per cent result, followed by the northern beaches with 90.5 percent, the city and east with 90.2 percent and the highest sales at 74, the lower north with 84.4 percent, the north-west with 81.5 percent, the upper north shore with 79.4 percent, the south with 74.3 percent, Canterbury Bankstown with 73.9 percent, the west with 69.7 percent, the south-west with 63.3 percent and the central coast with 58.8 percent. 
"Melbourne’s 78.7 percent result was higher than the 77.6 percent recorded the previous weekend and significantly ahead of the 66.3 percent reported over the same weekend last year.
"Late spring auction numbers have increased sharply since the Melbourne Cup holiday weekend, with the usual rush to market by sellers who want to get in before the year ends. Higher listings have contributed to a slight easing in clearance rates in recent weeks, but results remain firmly in favour of sellers in what remains strong local market conditions.
"Next weekend will present the local market with its biggest test of the spring selling season, with nearly 1400 homes set to go under the hammer. 
"Melbourne’s western suburbs continue to record boom-time results, with a leading regional clearance rate of 86.2 percent and the highest sales at 119. The next highest was the inner south with 81.7 percent, closely followed by the outer east and the south-east each with 81.1 percent, then the north with 79.7 percent, the north-east with 76.5 percent, the inner east with 75 percent and the inner city with a clearance rate of 73.7 percent."
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Auction market maintaining momentum leading into Super Saturday

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A record price has been paid for penthouse in Parramatta.
The $3 million sale was in the initial offering of Coronation Property’s highly anticipated 8 Phillip Street in Parramatta.
Local Parramatta businessman Bob Reiman (below) had originally planned to buy a standard three bedroom apartment, but upgraded to the $3 million penthouse - one of a handful of apartments on the top two floors of the 55 storey tower.  
<img src="/images/2016/11/21/DSC_0011.JPG" alt="">
 
The apartments for sale started from $459,000 for a studio apartment.
<img src="/images/2016/11/21/700_coronation.jpg" alt="">
The prior disclosed off the plan penthouse offerings elsewhere in Parramatta had been in the $2.2 million to $2.6 million range. 
“I was really impressed with the quality of the finishes of the apartment and the design by international architect Woods Bagot," said Mr Reiman.
Its stage one sold out, after more than 200 expressions of interest were received prior to launch day resulting in more than $110 million sold in the first few hours.  
Further strong sales are anticipated over the next few days.
The luxury 55-storey tower will feature boutique QT Hotel accommodation on its lower levels, together with world-class facilities including a signature QT bar &amp; grill restaurant which will also be open to the public, multiple meeting and event spaces, Spa Q, a ballroom accommodating 200 people seated and an alfresco infinity pool on the 18th storey.
8 Phillip Street will comprise just over 300 residences when completed in 2020, with apartments to include one, two and three bedroom configurations, as well as studio and penthouse options.
<img src="/images/2016/11/21/700_parra.jpg" alt="">
The tower’s pièce de résistance is its spacious ‘Studio 54’ rooftop bar which will be open to residents as well as the public and will easily be able to accommodate 600 patrons, who will be able to enjoy unapparelled views of Sydney’s CBD and surrounds.
Jason Soulos, Sales Director, Coronation Property, said the response to 8 Phillip Street had been exceptionally strong in the lead-up to the sales launch.
“Although we were expecting robust sales at our launch, it wasn’t until we opened our project gallery in recent weeks that we were able to truly gauge just how exciting the project had become to locals – many of whom have since purchased apartments within the development,” Mr Soulos said.
“The addition of high-tech, immersive virtual reality booths within our project gallery to showcase the project to buyers was exceptionally well-received – the technology was able to virtually transport buyers right to the top of the tower to experience its facilities and vistas for themselves.”
Buyers on the day also cited the inclusion of world-class landscape architecture and outdoor design elements by project partner Jamie Durie as another drawcard for 8 Phillip Street, with the gardening guru planning a floating forest and trapeze garden to grace the tower’s façade and foyer.
According to Mr Soulos, the majority of purchasers to date are owner-occupiers, with many currently living or working in Parramatta.
The project gallery and display apartment is open from 11am – 4pm on Thursdays to Sundays or by appointment.  Appointments can be made by calling 1800 753 163 or enquiring via <a href="mailto:sales@coronation.com.au" target="_blank">sales@coronation.com.au</a>.
For more information visit liveat8phillipst.com.au.
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Record $3 million penthouse sale in Coronation’s 8 Phillip Street, Parramatta

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Altona, the quietened former Sydney harbourfront party home in Point Piper, has new owners. 
No price disclosure but <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/54-wunulla-rd-point-piper-nsw-2027" target="_blank">Altona</a> was offered as likely to fetch $60 million plus, so the sale fell short of the Sydney record set when the casino tycoon James Packer secured $70 million at Vaucluse last year.
The low-key vendors, the Wang family had bought the prized harbourfront home for $52 million in 2013, so with few only minor renovations have made a handy profit.
Late this week the Huang family placed a caveat on the property's title following their purchase. It is understood they live in Hunters Hill.
Its sale negotiations concluded quickly as there was no requirement for Foreign Investment Review Board approval by the resident Australians.
The iconic Victorian Italianate home sits on a 2400 sq m holding after a proposed subdivision sale of the vacant $18 million tennis court block did not proceed after neighbourhood objections. 
The previous owners include Deke Miskin, a former teenage magazine publishing industry entreprenuer, and his wife Eve who hosted many social events as did the Handbury family during their tenure.
A who's who have thought about owning it including actor Russell Crowe who looked at buying it too in 2007 as did the Lowy shopping centre family. 
The harbourside home is on Wunulla Road, just a few doors along from the home of the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and wife, Lucy.
Altona was listed with it limited web marketing in June this year through Rosaline Ho of Goldfield &amp; Co with more than 10 potential buyers eventually shown through the iconic home with Dods &amp; Zuccon Architects re-design.
Sydney's priciest trophy home sale remains the $70 million secured last year by James and Erica Packer through Christie's International agent Ken Jacobs when it was sold to longtime Hunters Hill owner and Chinese billionaire Dr Chau Chak Wing. 
The whisper quiet Altona sale reduces the options to buy impressive eastern suburb waterfronts by one.
As spring listings turn into summer offerings, agents still have Berthong and Boomerang at Elizabeth Bay and Elaine at Double Bay for sale.
The prestige inland offerings include Rona at Bellevue Hill.
There's a raft of houses sitting in equal third place.
The magnificent European-style Villa Igiea was sold for a confirmed $52 million by entrepreneurial expat Dr Wayne Burt in the final hours of 2015 across international time zones. 
The hillside mansion, inspired by a villa in Palermo, Sicily, dates back to the 1920s when built for the Grace retailing family. It has become one of Sydney’s leading short-term luxury rentals, currently occupied by Texan billionaire Jim Clark and his model wife Kristy Hinze-Clark as their Sydney to Hobart race-winning bolthole.
The sale was $47 million for the house and $5 million for the adjoining property.
The bullish Villa Igiea price was secured by Ken Jacobs at Christie’s International and Brad Pillinger at Pillinger Properties, who has had a hand in the 2200sqm property’s sale three times. 
Altona had previously sold at $52 million three years ago, through Alison Coopes, who was back as a listing agent this time.
Also at $52 million, Andrew and Andrea Banks sold Villa Veneto for a reported $52 million, in 2010 to dental entrepreneur David Penn and his wife Linda Mueller, a Lowes Manhattan heiress, who had made their initial inspection two years earlier.
Sold through Bill Malouf, the five-storey Italianate villa was designed by Michael Suttor, with interiors by Michael Love, and was completed in 2004 having cost about $15 million to build. 
In fifth place, the 2008 expatriate foreign exchange dealer Ivan Ritossa paid $45 million for his beachfront  Vaucluse residence via agent Bill Bridges.
Actor Russell Crowe had inspected the house twice but passed when it was listed by late Allco boss David Coe. 
He had bought it in 1998 for $14.63 million after the death of Sir Alexis Albert, of the Boomerang music songbook family, who built it in 1936.
The Queen popped in for afternoon tea on her 1954 visit.
This article first appeared in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Point Piper's Altona sails into second place with $60 million sale to Huang family

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Some 10 of the Platino Chatswood Place's final release of apartments in Chatswood in Sydney's north, sold off the plan at the weekend.
<div>The final release saw 22 units on offer with pricing:</div>
<div>
<div>Studios, 40-41sqm, $699,000-$730,000</div>
<div>1 Beds, 52-58sqm, $990k-$1,020,000</div>
<div>2 Beds, 77-85, $1,515,000 - $1,825,000</div>
<div>3 beds, 108-160sqm, $2,225,000 - $3,850,000</div>
<div> </div>
<div>After launching in late 2015 and selling out within the first few hours, the developer then launched its second stage earlier this year again with strong demand.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Blending classic heritage architecture with urban design, the 260 Victoria Avenue neighbourhood will have its own set of amenities, shops, dining precinct and community facilities such as childcare services  just a short distance from the heart of Chatswood CBD.   </div>
<div>They were offered through CBRE managing director David Milton.</div>
<div>
The initial launch at Chatswood Place, a $300 million new boutique mixed use development, saw 106 out of 111 apartments sold for a total of $160 million.
Located at 260 Victoria Avenue, the development comprises 223 apartments over five buildings.
Construction was expected to begin in February 2016 with completion proposed by late 2018.
Platino Properties has been designing and developing residential apartments on Sydney’s North Shore for over 35 years. 
</div>
</div>
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