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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Rents in the capital cities continue to decline with asking rents down by 0.5% over the past 12 months, according to CoreLogic's latest report.
The combined capital house asking rent deteriorated by 0.8% year on year to August 2016, while asking unit rents rose slightly by 0.7% year on year.
Hobart was the standout performer across the last the last 12 months, asking rents for houses rising by 6.0% and units 14.3%. 
The gains in the country's most southerly capital was offset by the falls in the most northerly. 
Darwin has seen the most significant change with annual house rents down by 10.8% while units are down by 27.9%.
<a href="/images/2016/10/07/Rent%20declining.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/07/Rent%20declining.jpg" alt="">
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Asking rents in decline: CoreLogic

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GUEST OBSERVER
The Property Council of Australia has welcomed the release of the government’s draft revision of the South East Queensland Regional Plan. 
The refresh of the State Government’s seven year old regional land-use plan is an important moment for industry, councils and the broader community alike. 
The goal of the regional plan is to outline how future growth can be accommodated in a manner which maintains the enviable way of life for South East Queenslanders.
While it’s certainly not everything the property industry feels is required, it does appear the State has taken onboard a number of the recommendations we have made during the consultation process. 
These included a commitment to greater monitoring and reporting against the plan, a strategic assessment of environmental values and focus on delivering employment as well as housing across the region. 
The property industry will now be sifting through the detail of the draft to test the underlying assumptions and determine if the Government’s approach is realistic.
The Government has proposed a shift towards more infill development to meet future housing demand, with a new target of 60 percent infill and 40 percent greenfield over the next 25 years. 
What the industry wants to deliver is a wide range of housing choice for South East Queenslanders.
South East Queensland will need considerably more of every type of housing over the next 25 years, whether it is apartments, new homes, retirement villages or student accommodation. 
We will be analysing this nominal infill target to ensure that it doesn’t create any artificial constraint on the delivery of new houses, and have a corresponding impact on affordability. 
The proposed modest expansion of the urban footprint isn’t anything revolutionary, but it acknowledges that growth is inevitable and Government’s role is to appropriately cater for it in a sustainable manner. 
As industry pours over the detail, we will be looking to ensure that each community in SEQ has its own adequate supply of future housing and employment lands.
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A strategic region-wide assessment of environmental considerations has been flagged by the Government in the plan as the way forward to achieve an evidence-based approach to ecological protection. 
Industry strongly supports the push to identify with certainty those areas that should be protected from urban uses, and those areas where urban uses are agreed to be the highest and best use of the land.
This will not only reduce red tape, but also achieve far better environmental outcomes.
Public consultation on the draft plan will run until 3 March 2017. It is expected that the final plan will come into effect in mid-2017. 
Once the document is finalised, the Government must take the leadership role in ensuring that their plan doesn’t gather dust, but is implemented on the ground.
This will mean sitting down with local governments to understand what impediments exist to ensuring this land is delivered to market as quickly as possible. 
Given the plan’s emphasis on infill development, this leadership role will also mean offering greater support to local governments over contentious infill projects.” 
The Property Council has called on the Queensland Government to establish a $200 million Regional Project Fund to assist local governments in financing key infrastructure that will enable them to translate the new South East Queensland Regional Plan (SEQRP) into their local planning schemes. 
As our population grows, so too will the demand for housing. If we want to ensure South East Queensland is an affordable place to live into the future, we need to unlock new housing supply to match this demand.
Chris Mountford is Queensland executive director of the Property Council and can be contacted <a href="https://www.propertycouncil.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

South East Queensland Regional Plan refresh moves towards infill housing development

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Landscaping Victoria celebrated their 2016 Industry Awards and 50th Anniversary Gala recently with Formation Landscapes walking away with five awards.
Formation Landscapes won the Landscape of the Year award. Formation Landscapes put forward two projects across a number of categories. Across the two projects, Formation claimed Landscape Design Under 60sqm, Landscape Design Over 200sqm, Residential Construction over $300,000 and the Grant Saltmarsh Memorial Feature in the Landscape Award.
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Formation%202.jpg" alt="">
Formation took out Landscape of the Year for their Surrey Hills Project, deemed a "useable, low maintenance entertainment space incorporating a kid friendly zone, and year-round functionality by the judges. The project was seen to be "a fantastic balance of both hard and soft scape elements, completed to an impeccable level of detail".
The judges across all categories praised Formation for their "clever and well considered" approach to such a difficult site. 
Entering the awards for the first time in their16 years of membership, Semken Landscaping won in the Landscape Management and Maintenance category for their Plenty Project.
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Semken%20Landscaping.jpg" alt="">
For the second year running, Jane Jones Landscapes took out the Plants in the Landscape award for their Kew Project with a garden that "invites exploration and shines with personality and life". Timandra Design and Landscaping was awarded the top prize in the Sustainable Landscape category for their Warrnambool Project, with a High Commendation going to Robert Boyle Landscape Design, who also took out the same award in the Plants in the Landscape category.
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Jane%20Jones.jpg" alt="">
Warrandale Industries won Commercial Landscape Construction under 500k for their Melbourne Zoo Lemur Project, as well for Hard Structures in the Landscape for their Grampians Hikers Camp Project. 
 <img src="/images/2016/10/18/Warrandale%20Industries.JPG" alt="">
PTA Landscapes won the Commercial Construction over 500k category, taking out the win for their Monash University Clayton Project.
Australian Ecosystems were awarded a High Commendation for their Ascot Vale Project.
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/PTA%20Landscapes.jpg" alt="">
COS Design claimed victory in the Landscape Design 60-200sqm'category with their Canterbury Project and took out a commendation for their Caulfield Project in the same category.
COS Design also received two highly commendation nods in the Landscape Design under 60 sqm category, and Ccmmendations in both the 'Landscape Design over 200sqm category and the Grant Saltmarsh Feature in the Landscape category.
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/COS%20Design.jpg" alt="">
Bayon Gardens took out the top prize in the Residential Construction under 50k category with their Camberwell Project, and a commendation in the Rising Star Category.
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Bayon%20Gardens.jpg" alt="">
Residential Landscape Construction 50 -150K was awarded to Esjay Landscapes for their Canterbury Project.
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Esjay%20Landscapes.jpg" alt="">
Apex Landscapes claimed victory in the Residential Landscape Construction 150 – 300K category for their Ascot Vale Project.
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Apex%20Landscapes.jpg" alt="">
This year's Rising Star award was presented to Landscape Plus, accepted by director Chris Keay. Awarded to a business less than 5 years of age, judges felt that Landscape Plus impressed the most with their business structure, knowledge and ambition. 
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Landscape%20Plus.JPG" alt="">
In his acceptance speech Chris Keay thanked his partner for her support over the past 4.5 years and acknowledged the immense amount of hard work and sacrifice that goes into starting up a business and praised those companies who themselves had taken that leap.
Superior quality, excellent communication and consistent product supply saw Warners Nurseries take out the Supplier of the Year awards, while a joint win was presented for Apprentice of the Year to Erik Holt of Ian Barker Gardens
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Erik%20Holt.jpg" alt="">
and Thomas Conboy of Formation Landscapes,
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Thomas%20Conboy.jpg" alt="">
both impressing judges with their diverse, highly technical skill sets, early leadership beyond their years and responsibilities.
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Formation Landscapes scoops the pool as Landscaping Victoria celebrates 50 years

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Property expert John McGrath has encouraged first home buyers to look deeper into the grants and stamp duty concessions available to them. 
In his latest his latest Switzer blog he says with first home buying across Australia at its lowest level in more than a decade he wants to encourage young people to re-think their position, adding every single state and territory in Australia is currently offering assistance to first home buyers – and not just on new property purchases either.
"Every now and then the rules change and young people need to keep abreast of these changes so they can best take advantage of them," he said.
"For example, did you know the Queensland Government has introduced a $5,000 boost to their First Home Owners’ Grant for this financial year only? This is a one-off, one-year boost to the grant from $15,000 to $20,000 that will end on June 30, 2017.
"While it’s true that all grants are limited to newly-built, off-the-plan or substantially renovated properties, some stamp duty concessions apply to both new and established homes.
"It’s really worth taking the time to check out exactly what assistance is available to you, especially with interest rates at such record lows and likely to stay this way indefinitely. If you put these two factors together, motivated first home buyers can do very well right now.
"Although affordability is a big hurdle in cities like Sydney, I see a major opportunity ahead for young buyers in prime east coast markets.
"That opportunity is the impending oversupply of new apartment stock in Melbourne, Brisbane and to a slightly lesser extent, Sydney. Where a market is oversupplied, prices fall. It’s that simple and that means opportunities for buyers.
"The impending apartment oversupply means first home buyers will be able to:
<ul>
<li>    Buy for a better price</li>
<li>    Have more negotiating power</li>
<li>    Have more choice of property available to them</li>
<li>    Have more time on their side to choose their next home</li>
<li>    Get tens of thousands of dollars in grants and duty concessions to assist them</li>
</ul>
He gave a few few words of caution for potential buyers to heed when buying in an oversupplied market.
"You have to be careful in your choice of location. Pick a desirable area close to amenities with easy access to major employment hubs. Once the oversupply has been absorbed (which might take a few years), prices will begin rising again in good quality suburbs.
"Be careful in your choice of product. Focus on good quality developments and choose an apartment that has some unique features, such as a particularly large floor plan, generous balconies or courtyards, great privacy, views or a north aspect. Avoid small uninspiring apartments in developments where every property is the same.
"Shop around for finance. Some lenders are avoiding certain postcodes (primarily central CBD areas) not because they’re bad areas to buy in, but because the oversupply creates too much short-term risk for the banks. So you’ll need to talk to a broker to find out which lenders are appropriate for you if you want to buy in these areas.
"Buy for the long term. I can’t stress this enough. The oversupply will take some time to run its course. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you need to sell during the oversupply period. Oversupplies are only advantageous to buyers.
"Here is a brief overview of the grants and stamp duty concessions available in each state and territory. For more comprehensive information, go to <a href="https://www.firsthome.gov.au" target="_blank">www.firsthome.gov.au</a>."
New South Wales
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant (New Homes) scheme
Eligible price point: $750,000 or less
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $10,000
Stamp duty concessions
Name: First Home – New Home scheme
Eligible price point: Full exemption up to $550,000, concessional rates for new homes valued between $550,000 and $650,000
Eligible properties: New homes
Victoria
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: $750,000 or less
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $10,000
Stamp duty concessions
Name: First home buyer duty reduction
Eligible price point: $600,000 or less
Eligible properties: All properties
Amount: Up to 50% discount on stamp duty
Note: A second scheme called the Off-the-Plan Concession provides a further discount specifically for off-the-plan purchases
Queensland
Grants
Name: First Home Owners’ Grant
Eligible price point: $750,000 or less
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $20,000 until June 30, 2017
Stamp duty concessions
Name: First Home Concession
Eligible price point: $550,000 or less
Eligible properties: All properties
Amount: Stamp duty exempt to $500,000, sliding scale from $500,000 - $549,000 
Note: A second scheme called the Home Concession provides stamp duty concessions on all properties at any price point purchased for owner-occupation. If your first home is above $550,000, you can apply for a concession through this scheme
Australian Capital Territory
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: $750,000 or less
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $10,000
Stamp duty concessions
Name: Home Buyer Concession Scheme
Eligible price point: Full concession up to $455,000; sliding scale to $585,000
Eligible properties: New homes
Other criteria: Gross income thresholds apply. For example, the threshold for applicants without children is $160,000. You do not need to be a first home buyer but you cannot have owned property for the past two years
Amount: Stamp duty reduced to just $20 on properties worth $455,000 or less
Western Australia
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: $750,000 cap on properties south of the 26th parallel (i.e. Perth metropolitan areas) and $1 million cap on homes north of the 26th parallel
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $10,000
Stamp duty concessions
Name: First Home Owner Rate of Duty
Eligible price point: $530,000 or less
Eligible properties: All properties
Amount: Stamp duty exempt on homes worth $430,000 or less. Sliding scale of concessions on homes valued $431,000 - $530,000
South Australia
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: $575,000 or less
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $15,000
Stamp duty concessions
Name: Off-the-Plan Apartment Concession
Eligible price point: No threshold
Eligible properties: Off-the-plan apartments
Amount: Partial concessions available until June 30, 2017. Amount depends on the stage of construction at the time of purchase
Northern Territory
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: No threshold
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $26,000 plus a further grant of up to $2,000 under the Household Goods Grant Scheme
Stamp duty concessions
Name: First Home Owner Discount
Eligible price point: $650,000 or less
Eligible properties: Established properties
Amount: Stamp duty exempt up to $500,000; sliding scale to $650,000. Flat $10,000 duty discount for homes worth more than $650,000
Tasmania
Grants
Name: First Home Owner Grant
Eligible price point: No threshold
Eligible properties: New homes
Amount: $20,000 until June 30, 2017 and $10,000 from July 1, 2017
Stamp duty concessions
None available
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

John McGrath sees big opportunities for first home buyers

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Auctions in Sydney are expected to cool this weekend along with Melbourne, however Melbourne's listings could still make for one of the biggest state auction weekends so far this year.
Listings slated to go under the hammer in Sydney are around 600, down from last week's 673 with the inner west the busiest region with 95 auctions. Some 796 auctions were held over the same weekend last year.
In Melbourne, the super Saturday weekend before Derby Day, hosts some 1190 auctions this Saturday but that figure is 20 percent down on the same weekend last year. This year is the smallest for a super Saturday since 2012, according to Domain Group.
In Sydney, homebuyers in continue to be constrained for choice compared with the record offerings auctioned over spring last year according to Andrew Wilson from the Domain Group.
"The inner west continues its reign as Sydney’s most popular region for Saturday auctions this weekend with 95 listings. Next highest is the upper north shore with 84, followed by the city and east 77, the south 74, the lower north 59, the south-west, west and north-west each with 42, the northern beaches 41, Canterbury Bankstown 37, the central coast 18 and the Blue Mountains with just one auction scheduled this weekend," he said.
"Randwick, Lane Cove North, Epping and Carlingford lead the pack as the most popular auction suburbs in Sydney this weekend. Next highest is Drummoyne with nine, followed by Baulkham Hills eight and a number of suburbs with seven auctions scheduled, including Lane Cove, Maroubra, Killara, Wahroonga, Strathfield, Stanmore and Marrickville.
"The Sydney weekend auction market recaptured its boom-time vibe last weekend with the clearance rate moving back into the 80s in a spring market that continues to blossom."
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Sydney's auction cooling, Melbourne's super Saturday listings smallest since 2012

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The $280 million Esplanade mixed-use development in Sydney's north west, located at Norwest Lake, has been given the green light by the Sydney West Joint Regional Planning Panel.
Construction of Esplanade is expected to start in 2017 with prices for a one-bedroom unit starting from $525,000 and two-bedroom apartments with parking starting from $725,000.
A number of premium lakefront apartments have been released, and the penthouse collection due for release soon.
The development also features four-bedroom penthouses called Sky Residences, expected to be released to the market early 2017.
All commercial suites and more than 60 percent of the apartments have already sold pre-DA, according to Capital Corporation managing director Steve Grant.
"This approval from the JRPP is great news for the many people who have shown their confidence in what we’ve proposed by purchasing prior to approval," he said.
"More than 85 percent of buyers are local to the area and keen to stay connected to the community they love but want the change of lifestyle that Esplanade offers,” he says.
 “We’ve had the chance to incorporate feedback from Council and the Norwest Business Association and we’re delighted with the outcome. We’re even more excited for the buyers who will be very pleased to see their new home progress.
 "Enquiry for apartments remained constant, with downsizers, families and investors all drawn to the ‘all-in-one vertical village’ concept and the array of resort-like facilities."
The <a href="https://esplanadenorwest.com.au/leisure-and-lifestyle-is-norwests-new-business.php" target="_blank">Esplanade development</a> will feature two towers – one 19 storeys and the other 20 storeys – with 247 apartments in a mix of one, two and three bedroom layouts, a pool, gym, open-air cinema and landscaped gardens as well as 6,000sqm of waterfront retail space and three levels of boutique commercial suites.
For more information, call 1800 088 800 or visit the sales suite at 11 Solent Circuit, Baulkham Hills, from noon to 3pm on Wednesdays to Sundays.
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Green Light for Norwest's $280M Esplanade mixed-use development

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Greaton releases to the market stage one in its $260 million Oxford Central project located in the Sydney suburb of Epping this weekend.
Marchese Partners has designed 30 - 42 Oxford Street which comprises 252 luxurious apartments spread across two 17 storey towers, 292 car spaces and 625 sq m of retail on the ground level.
A two storey heritage building located on the site will also be retained and is part of the retail precinct.
David Milton, Managing Director of CBRE and head sales agent for Oxford Central said Greaton was delivering "a boutique quality product to the area which is set to captivate buyers.”
Dorothy Novak, National Marketing Manager for Greaton said Epping, was one of Sydney’s most liveable and connected destinations.
"The CBD, major employment hubs and road, bus and train networks are all within close proximity to the project."
<img src="/images/2016/10/20/Epping_Living_email.jpg" alt="">
“We aim to create a superior lifestyle destination that will suite a wide range of purchasers.
"Whether you are a first home buyer seeking an affordable apartment, business owner looking for a study room or investor seeking a dwelling with strong potential for capital growth, Oxford Central caters for everyone.”
The first tower known as Centrale will be released as part of stage one and comprises seven one bedroom apartments, 111 two bedders, and 11 with three bedrooms.
<img src="/images/2016/10/20/Epping_Bedroom_email.jpg" alt="">
Prices for apartments start at $525,000 for a one bed with an average internal size of 52 to 55 sq m, two beds start at $815,000 featuring an internal average size of 74 to 85 sq m and three beds are priced from $1.1 million with an internal space averaging between 99 to 120 sq m.
The apartment interiors will have Caesarstone benchtops with timber accents on the cupboards, two distinctive spring and autumn colour palettes to choose from supported by elegant timber floors, Miele appliances in the kitchen, Parisi fittings throughout, imported tiles wrapped around the floor and walls in the bathroom, floor to ceiling glass sliding doors and expansive balconies.
An open air café area and public plaza will feature alongside the Heritage building which fronts Oxford Central and will be accessible to the public.
Residents will also have communal open space on the ground level which include recreational and BBQ facilities.
<img src="/images/2016/10/20/Epping_Balcony_email.jpg" alt="">
It is 150 metres from Epping Train Station, Sydney’s CBD is approximately 22 kilometres and Parramatta, Macquarie Park and North Ryde are a short 10 kilometre commute.
Epping Boys High, Cheltenham Girls High, James Ruse High, Epping North Public School, Epping West Public School as well as private schools such as Loreto and The Kings School and Macquarie University are all within 10 kilometres from Oxford Central.
A state of the art display suite is located on site at 30 – 42 Oxford St opened October 8.
For further information visit: <a href="https://www.oxfordcentral.com.au" target="_blank">www.oxfordcentral.com.au</a> or phone 1800 917 997.
Greaton expects to start construction early in 2017.  
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Stage one launch set for Greaton's $260 million Oxford Central at Epping

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An app that eases property tax management has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Optus MyBusiness Awards in the Fintech Business of the Year category.  
Abakus Apps, founded in 2015 by Brenton Tidow, was launched July 2016 and is designed to help users self-manage their investments, tax returns and get an estimate of their tax position at any time during the financial year..  
Brenton Tidow, Abakus Apps founder said as an active property investor, Abakus Apps was created from the frustration of handling 'pesky' expense receipts relating to investments and he wanted to develop a unique and intuitive tool that uncomplicated property tax.
“The MyBusiness Awards are well-known as one of the most prestigious national awards programs that celebrate some of Australia’s best and most innovative businesses and individuals," he said.
"To be a finalist is a massive achievement for me personally, as I’ve bootstrapped the business myself and I’m involved in every aspect of its operations."
Abakus Apps is a subscription, cloud-based app with a monthly fee of $5.99 for an unlimited number of properties (paid through the iTunes Store or the Google Play Store).
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Property 101: Abakus Apps announced 2016 MyBusiness Awards Finalist for property tax software

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Mark McIvor, former chief executive officer and founding director of Equititrust Limited (in liquidation) (Equititrust) remains permanently banned from providing financial services after withdrawing an application to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) to appeal against ASIC's original banning decision.
Mr McIvor was permanently banned from providing financial services on 2 September 2015 following an earlier ASIC investigation into the collapse of Equititrust.
At that time, Equititrust held an Australian financial services (AFS) licence and was the responsible entity of two registered schemes; Equititrust Income Fund (EIF) and the Equititrust Priority Class Income Fund (EPCIF) and was also the trustee of Equititrust Premium Fund (EPF); an unregistered managed investment scheme.
An ASIC delegate found that whilst he was the director of Equititrust, Mr McIvor contravened a financial services law and was not of good fame or character to provide financial services.
His conduct involved breaches of the financial services legislation which were considered to be very serious, repetitive, prolonged and dishonest.
In particular, the ASIC delegate found that Mr McIvor contravened financial services laws by:
<ul>
<li>Signing 28 board meeting minutes, which falsely recorded a board meeting to approve a loan application had occurred, when no such board meeting had taken place, and in doing so, Equititrust did not meet its obligations under EIFs Compliance Plan; and</li>
<li> </li>
<li>Failing to take all the steps that a reasonable person would take, if they were in Mr McIvor's position, namely to ensure that accurate, true and correct documents were relied upon for compliance checks and not be involved in the production of false documents.</li>
</ul>
Mr McIvor subsequently filed applications for a review of ASIC's decision to permanently ban him from providing financial services and to stay the operation and implementation of the banning order.
The stay application was refused by the AAT (refer 16-181MR) and on 1 September 2016, Mr McIvor withdrew his application for review of ASIC's decision to permanently ban him from financial services.
ASIC Commissioner John Price said Mr McIvor's conduct was at the most serious end of the offending range and that it was appropriate he be permanently banned from providing financial services.
'People who provide financial services, especially those in senior management positions, are required to discharge their obligations under financial services laws efficiently, honestly and fairly. ASIC will ensure those who fail in these duties are removed from the industry,' Mr Price said.
Equititrust was incorporated on 18 August 1993 and was placed into voluntary administration on 15 February 2012. 
The creditors of Equititrust resolved that the company should be placed into liquidation on 20 April 2012.
The voluntary administrators of Equititrust reported that as at the date of their appointment:
<ul>
<li>    EIF had about 1620 unitholders who were owed approximately $203.6mil;</li>
<li> </li>
<li>    EPF had about 38 unitholders who were owed approximately $56.7mil; and</li>
<li> </li>
<li>    EPCIF had 5 unitholders and held no tangible assets.</li>
</ul>
On 19 December 2011, ASIC suspended Equititrust's AFSL for 12 months, for failing to comply with a number of key obligations as a financial services licensee (refer 11-306MR). Equititrust's AFSL remains suspended.
On 22 August 2014, Mr McIvor was convicted and fined $10,000 in the Brisbane Magistrates Court of six charges of failing to provide a Report as to Affairs and to deliver books and records to the liquidators of Chevron Capital Pty Ltd, MHSM Holdings Pty Ltd and SM Capital Pty Ltd (refer 14-223MR).
Mr McIvor was made bankrupt on 28 November 2012, however, his bankruptcy period has since expired.
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Former Equititrust CEO remains permanently banned from providing financial services

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/67301/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
In the ongoing debate about the transparency of Australia’s big banks, the idea of rate tracker mortgages has been gaining traction.
This is a mortgage that is tied to the cash rate set by the central bank (in Australia, the Reserve Bank of Australia), with an additional fixed margin set by the lender (usually a bank).
The rate follows the ups and downs of the cash rate, similar to what already occurs in short term lending markets like the bank bill swap rate (the rate at which banks lend each other money), says Professor Milind Sathye, from the University of Canberra.
When it comes to applying this same idea to mortgages, customers have more certainty because they know when the Reserve Bank moves rates, their rate will also move in line with this, Sathye says. The risk lies in the parameters banks may put around these types of loans, with additional fees or a floor rate.
Even though Australia’s big four banks haven’t been too keen on the idea, Sathye says this type of mortgage would provide a solution to the problem of trust in the banks. In addition he says it would force banks to be more efficient, to contain their costs given that the margin charged on top of the tracker mortgage rate remains fixed.
To hear the interview in full, <a href="https://theconversation.com/business-briefing-rate-tracker-mortgages-67301?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Latest%20from%20The%20Conversation%20for%20October%2021%202016%20-%205848&amp;utm_content=Latest%20from%20The%20Conversation%20for%20October%2021%202016%20-%205848+CID_a60bde7b4e4b7f336fde84dac19833b2&amp;utm_source=campaign_monitor&amp;utm_term=Business%20Briefing%20rate%20tracker%20mortgages" target="_blank">click here</a>.
Jenni Henderson is editor, Business and Economy, The Conversation and can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/team#jenni-henderson" target="_blank">here</a>.
Milind Sathye is professor of Accounting, Banking and Finance, University of Canberra and author for The Conversation. He can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/milind-sathye-4408" target="_blank">here</a>.
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