The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

Joel Robinson

First look: ‘Far more than replacing a shopping centre’ as Conquest unveils 736-home Eastlakes redevelopment

Abadeen has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for one of Mosman's largest apartment developments in recent years, seeking approval to transform the former Honeysuckle Garden and Midas site on Military Road into a 100-apartment mixed-use development.

The SSDA, lodged with investment partner Phoenix Property Investors, proposes around $230 million worth of new housing on the prominent <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/494-516-military-road-mosman-nsw-2088">494-516 Military Road</a> site.

The proposal comes as Mosman Council continues to progress its recently endorsed Masterplan, which identifies the precinct for increased housing density while maintaining the suburb's established character.

Designed by DKO Architecture, the development would comprise 100 apartments above ground-floor retail, with a rooftop wellness precinct including a gym, sauna, entertaining areas and landscaped communal spaces.

Rather than pushing to the full 12-storey height identified in Council's Masterplan, the proposal ranges between five and nine storeys, stepping down towards Hale Road. A tenth level would accommodate resident amenities rather than additional apartments.

The project has been designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and young professionals through to families and local downsizers looking to remain on the Lower North Shore.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5dada03f-5b4c-43ba-ba62-2868add31440" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.57.55%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7LBy0B.Jo8_iWAFJsClcV7Q3UnXrv49r" />

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock.

"The apartments have been designed as genuine long-term homes, with efficient floorplans that maximise usable living areas, generous storage, natural light and strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces," Brown says."

"We've focused on creating homes for a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and growing families through to downsizers who want to remain in Mosman."

The rooftop wellness offering forms a key part of the proposal, with residents set to have access to a gym, sauna, outdoor entertaining spaces, communal dining areas, landscaped gardens and a multi-use recreation court overlooking Sydney Harbour.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d37c2d6b-583a-4a0f-b7a9-9f46b893d2f4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.58.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=FPoa5FCm2RtzjhAh2w5FTWJbV6GHfY8D" />

DKO drew heavily on the site's natural and cultural history, undertaking a Connecting with Country process with local Aboriginal Elders to inform the architectural and landscape design.

Senior Associate Matthew Ritchard said the design sought to create a building that responded to both the site's landscape and its cultural significance.

"The architectural language of the project is a deep expression of Connecting with Country, where the materiality and colour palette serve as a bridge between the site's geological history and its future as a residential sanctuary."

The proposal also retains the site's established blue gum tree as the centrepiece of the communal landscaped gardens, while introducing activated retail fronting Military Road to strengthen the connection between Mosman and Cremorne villages.

If approved, the project would deliver 100 new homes within walking distance of shops, public transport, schools and local amenities, adding to the limited pipeline of new apartments on the Lower North Shore.

<h2>Project Snapshot</h2>

Project: Honeysuckle Garden Redevelopment

Address: 494-516 Military Road, Mosman

Developer: Abadeen and Phoenix Property Investors

Architect: DKO Architecture

Lead Architect: Matthew Ritchard

Value: $230 million

Residences: 100 apartments

Key features:

<ul>
	<li>
	Ground-floor retail
	</li>
	<li>
	Rooftop wellness precinct
	</li>
	<li>
	Gym and sauna
	</li>
	<li>
	Outdoor entertaining and BBQ areas
	</li>
	<li>
	Landscaped communal gardens
	</li>
	<li>
	Multi-use recreation court
	</li>
	<li>
	Retained mature blue gum tree
	</li>
	<li>
	Connecting with Country design process
	</li>
	<li>
	Harbour, CBD and Balmoral views from upper-level apartments
	</li>
</ul>

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock

First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman

The wave of apartment proposals sweeping through Mosman shows no signs of slowing, with another major residential development lodged through the NSW Government's State Significant Development pathway.

Developer First Quadrant Properties, which recently completed Willoughby Grounds and has several projects in planning across the North Shore, has unveiled plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cove-on-ourimbah-40-56-ourimbah-road-mosman-nsw-2088">Cove on Ourimbah</a>, a 63-apartment development on Ourimbah Road, adding to the growing pipeline of projects reshaping one of Sydney's most tightly held harbour suburbs.

The proposal would consolidate nine properties at 40-56 Ourimbah Road into a part eight, part nine-storey apartment building, continuing the momentum created by the NSW Government's accelerated planning pathways that have seen several significant developments emerge across Mosman over the past 12 months.

Designed by Doroch Architects, the project would deliver 63 apartments, resident wellness facilities including a gym, pool and sauna, landscaped communal spaces and basement parking, while using recessed upper levels, generous setbacks and extensive planting to reduce the perceived scale of the building.

<img alt="First look: First Quadrant Properties eyes nine-storey Mosman apartment project under State Significant pathway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32ee68e4-141e-4a10-8f83-48e961a5e71e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Ourimbah%20Road%2C%20Mosman%20a.png?VersionId=CUeILFc6APlwXPc.iplElbxHvREKwjig" />

Doroch Architects said the building had been designed to reinforce Mosman's established character.

"The building's aesthetic is grounded in the existing residential character of Ourimbah Road and the broader Mosman context," the architect noted in the planning documents submitted to the NSW Government.

The design adopts a contemporary material palette of natural stone, textured concrete and brown concave metal cladding, complemented by integrated planters and deep balconies. The podium incorporates softened curved concrete forms, while increased setbacks have been provided adjacent to the heritage-listed property at 60 Ourimbah Road to create a more sympathetic transition.

The site sits around 330 metres from Mosman Town Centre, placing it within the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy area, where increased residential density is being encouraged close to shops, transport and services.

The proposal follows a string of major apartment projects lodged or declared State Significant in Mosman in recent months, including Abadeen's 100-apartment Honeysuckle Garden redevelopment on Military Road and several other developments across Awaba Street, Redan Street and Muston Street from the likes of Time &amp; Place, HELM and Prosker Property.

&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/time-place-to-take-on-mosman-apartment-market">Time &amp; Place to take on Mosman apartment market</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-abadeen-plans-100-apartments-on-former-honeysuckle-garden-site-in-mosman">First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Another major apartment proposal signals Mosman's development boom

A new State Significant Development Application (SSDA) could reshape a prominent vacant site in Gosford's CBD, with Ming Tian Real Property proposing a mixed-use precinct that combines affordable housing, retail activation and a new public plaza.

The proposal for 43-45 Beane Street and 2 Keevers Lane would deliver a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/43-45-beane-street-gosford-nsw-2250">two-building development</a> comprising a 26-storey residential tower and a five-storey affordable housing building above ground-floor commercial space. A key focus of the project is the delivery of dedicated affordable housing alongside new public domain improvements designed to transform Keevers Lane into a more active urban destination.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/tony-owen-partners">Tony Owen Partners</a>, the development would provide 130 apartments, including 20 affordable housing dwellings managed by a registered community housing provider for at least 15 years. The market housing component comprises 110 apartments across a mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences, while the affordable housing includes six one-bedroom, 13 two-bedroom and one three-bedroom apartment. The proposal also incorporates 416 sqm of ground-floor retail, three basement levels accommodating 140 car spaces, 42 bicycle spaces, communal open space and extensive landscaping.

<img alt="First look: Ming Tian Real Property plans landmark affordable housing tower for Gosford city centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b858791-9060-4ee7-9178-44cb9e640a85" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Beane%20Street%20b_0.png?VersionId=_jbY0mqPEs7.jBZxozR7d6T4u85FoPmb" />

The affordable housing component has been distributed across both buildings, with four apartments located within the main tower and a dedicated five-storey building delivering a further 16 affordable homes. The project also includes 12 adaptable apartments and 24 dwellings designed to Silver Level Liveable Housing Guidelines.

The architectural design draws inspiration from Indigenous storytelling.

"The design is based on the indigenous motif of the Rainbow Serpent," Tony Owen Partners said in the Design Verification Statement.

"The Rainbow Serpent is a traditional totem of coastal eastern Australia. It represents natural forces, creation, change, and rebirth and is often associated with bodies of water. This motif can be seen in the undulation of the balconies rising on the building," Tony Owen Partners said in the Design Verification Statement.

Beyond the residential offering, the proposal seeks to revitalise the surrounding public realm, particularly Keevers Lane.

"The ground floor streetscape includes a commercial and dining precinct which will significantly improve the amenity of the area. This strategy transforms a currently inhospitable laneway into a thriving centre of urban renewal and day and night time activation to compliment the new adjoining UNC facilities," the architects said.

<img alt="First look: Ming Tian Real Property plans landmark affordable housing tower for Gosford city centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36b0ca6b-af15-424c-81db-9f3049c07b0c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Beane%20Street%20podium.png?VersionId=QCAv7bCitrg3zIGZUHI2z_HR8qVfKbp1" />

The Environmental Impact Statement notes that the project aims to "improve the provision of diverse housing options within Gosford City Centre, enhancing the mixed-use precinct by delivering high quality residential development, whilst concurrently providing a diverse range of housing choices through the provision of affordable housing, which is in growing need within the Gosford City Centre."

The site occupies approximately 2,070 sqm in the Gosford city centre, around 250 metres from Gosford Railway Station and within walking distance of Gosford Hospital, Mann Street's retail precinct and the University of Newcastle's Gosford campus currently under construction. The currently vacant site previously received approval for a lower-scale residential development, with the new proposal leveraging the NSW Government's in-fill affordable housing pathway to increase density while introducing dedicated affordable housing.

First look: Rainbow Serpent inspires bold new Gosford apartment tower

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bottega-property-group">Bottega House</a> has secured council approval for its first Brisbane project - a $270 million luxury residential development on an absolute riverfront site in leafy St Lucia.&nbsp;

The 15-storey project, known as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-lucia-by-bottega-house-180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">St Lucia by Bottega House</a> , will occupy a prime north-facing site at 178-180 Macquarie Street, directly fronting the Brisbane River in the established inner-west suburb known for its rowing clubs, golf courses and sprawling University of Queensland campus.&nbsp;

St Lucia by Bottega House will feature a suite of amenities including dedicated wellness spaces, a mineral pool and cold plunge. The project has been positioned to attract affluent owner-occupiers seeking high-quality, house-sized apartments.&nbsp;

Bottega House has been set up by co-directors Nick Malloch, Louis Mennes and Craig Marsh.

Malloch said the project drew inspiration from its Brisbane River setting and leafy inner-west surrounds, while responding to the demands of discerning locals looking to transition from freestanding homes into apartment living.&nbsp;

"With an expansive river frontage and lush green surrounds, we knew we had to create something special that reflects the natural beauty of the location while offering residents masterfully crafted homes," said Malloch.&nbsp;

"Our intent was to complement the project's quiet, private setting by introducing residences that offer a calm retreat and sanctuary from the everyday. The result is a harmonious blend of architecture, interiors and amenity that emphasises wellbeing, comfort and beauty without excess."&nbsp;

Malloch added that project consultants had been carefully selected in alignment with Bottega House's commitment to care, quality and attention to detail. The design team includes architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, interiors practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/urbis">Urbis</a>.&nbsp;

Three-bedroom apartments are expected to start around $5 millio. Selling agents Keenan &amp; Byrne said the pricing strategy for the project was anticipated to achieve upwards of $25,500 per square metre.&nbsp;

The project's development approval this week follows the success of Bottega House's inaugural Queensland project - a 22-storey collection of full-floor sky homes at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast which included the sale of a two-storey penthouse at a record price for a beachside residence.&nbsp;

St Lucia by Bottega House is expected to launch to market in November, with construction anticipated to be completed mid 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151826]

Bottega House to make Brisbane debut with St Lucia riverfront apartment development

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?

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

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Sydney recorded a preliminary clearance rate of 77.2 percent to Sunday February 21 from 724 auctions, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
A preliminary clearance rate of around 50 percent was recorded in the Baulkham Hills  and Hawkesbury regions, 88.2 percent for both the City and Inner South region and 88 percent in the Eastern Suburbs.
<a href="/images/2016/02/22/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-22%20at%2012.23.52%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/22/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-22%20at%2012.23.52%20PM.png" alt="">
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mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

88.2 percent clearance rate for both Sydney City and Inner South: CoreLogic RP Data 

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Despite the higher than expected clearance rates over the early phase of the new year auction market, auction volumes are yet to reach the same levels seen last year.  
After the weighted capital city average auction clearance rate was tracking in the high 50 percent range throughout December last year, auction results have shown a higher than expected bounce, with the clearance rate holding higher than 70 percent over the past three weeks. The preliminary clearance rate of 72.3 percent has moved higher compared to last week (71.8 percent). 
This week’s preliminary clearance rate is lower relative to last year’s results of 77.3 percent. This week, 2,215 capital city auctions took place, compared to 1,400 last week and 2,372 one year ago. Over the next few weeks it is expected that auction activity will continue to ramp up which will further test the resilience of auction markets on higher volumes.
<a href="/images/2016/02/22/20160222-Capital-city.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/02/22/20160222-Capital-city.jpg" alt="" width="702" height="527">
This week Melbourne’s preliminary auction clearance rate was 73.0 percent. Melbourne’s auction volumes continue to climb, up from 556 last week to 1,057 this week, which is similar to last year (1,074). On a year to date basis, Melbourne’s auction activity is just -1.4 percent lower than over the same period last year. This week, Inner Melbourne (234), Inner South Melbourne (157) and Inner East Melbourne (146) were the busiest sub-regions across the city, however the best performing region in terms of clearance rate was the Outer East, where 54 auctions were reported with a clearance rate of 79.6 percent. All regions with the exclusion of Mornington Peninsula (62.5 percent) saw clearance rates of at least 70 percent this week.
 
<a href="/images/2016/02/22/20160222-Melbourne.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/22/20160222-Melbourne.jpg" alt="" width="662" height="442">
After recording the highest clearance rate for the city since August 2015 last week (78.1 percent), Sydney’s preliminary results show that the clearance rate for the city has slipped slightly lower this week, currently recorded at 77.2 percent. This week 724 auctions were being tracked across the city, higher than the 513 last week, but lower than one year ago when 921 auctions were held across the city. Having recorded a relatively strong clearance rate for the past three weeks, it will be interesting to see if strength is maintained as auction volumes pass the 1,000 mark over the coming weeks.  
Preliminary results show that the performance of each individual sub-region across the city is diverse, with clearance rates as low as 50 percent In Baulkham Hills and Hawkesbury (albeit on a very low volume of auctions with just 12 results reported) and as strong as 88.2 percent for the City and Inner South Region and 88 percent across the Eastern Suburbs.
<a href="/images/2016/02/22/20160222-Sydney.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/22/20160222-Sydney.jpg" alt="" width="713" height="485">
 
The preliminary clearance rate for Brisbane was 54.5 percent this week, compared to a final auction clearance rate of 48.4 percent last week and a stronger 63.6 percent last year. More homes went to auction this week (169) compared to last week (111) and relative to last year (119). This week’s preliminary clearance rate for the Gold Coast across the 18 reported results is 50 percent.
<a href="/images/2016/02/22/20160222-Brisbane.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/22/20160222-Brisbane.jpg" alt="" width="796" height="532">
 
69.9 percent of Adelaide auctions were successful this week, based on preliminary results. Last week a clearance rate of 75 percent was reported and one year ago it was significantly lower at 53.3 percent, however Adelaide’s clearance rate tends to move more than cities with larger auction volumes on a week on week basis.
<a href="/images/2016/02/22/20160222-Adelaide.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/22/20160222-Adelaide.jpg" alt="" width="804" height="545">
 
<h1 class="title">Preliminary clearance rate edges slightly higher to 72.3 per cent while auction volumes remain lower than last year</h1>
<div class="post-meta">
by <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/author/shana-miller/" title="Posts by Shana Miller" rel="author">Shana Miller</a> on <abbr class="date time published" title="2016-02-22T09:33:13+1100">February 22, 2016</abbr>  in <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/category/auction-results/">Auction results</a>, <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/category/national-market/">National Market</a>
</div>
<div class="entry">
<a id="dd_start" href=""></a>
Despite the higher than expected clearance rates over the early phase of the new year auction market, auction volumes are yet to reach the same levels seen last year.  After the weighted capital city average auction clearance rate was tracking in the high 50 per cent range throughout December last year, auction results have shown a higher than expected bounce, with the clearance rate holding higher than 70 per cent over the past three weeks.  The preliminary clearance rate of 72.3 per cent has moved higher compared to last week (71.8 per cent). This week’s preliminary clearance rate is lower relative to last year’s results of 77.3 per cent. This week, 2,215 capital city auctions took place, compared to 1,400 last week and 2,372 one year ago. Over the next few weeks it is expected that auction activity will continue to ramp up which will further test the resilience of auction markets on higher volumes.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160222-Capital-city.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-6340"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6340" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160222-Capital-city.jpg" alt="20160222 Capital city" width="979" height="735"></a>
This week Melbourne’s preliminary auction clearance rate was 73.0 per cent. Melbourne’s auction volumes continue to climb, up from 556 last week to 1,057 this week, which is similar to last year (1,074). On a year to date basis, Melbourne’s auction activity is just -1.4 per cent lower than over the same period last year. This week, Inner Melbourne (234), Inner South Melbourne (157) and Inner East Melbourne (146) were the busiest sub-regions across the city, however the best performing region in terms of clearance rate was the Outer East, where 54 auctions were reported with a clearance rate of 79.6 per cent. All regions with the exclusion of Mornington Peninsula (62.5 per cent) saw clearance rates of at least 70 per cent this week.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160222-Melbourne.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-6341"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6341" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160222-Melbourne.jpg" alt="20160222 Melbourne" width="984" height="657"></a>
After recording the highest clearance rate for the city since August 2015 last week (78.1 per cent), Sydney’s preliminary results show that the clearance rate for the city has slipped slightly lower this week, currently recorded at 77.2 per cent. This week 724 auctions were being tracked across the city, higher than the 513 last week, but lower than one year ago when 921 auctions were held across the city. Having recorded a relatively strong clearance rate for the past three weeks, it will be interesting to see if strength is maintained as auction volumes pass the 1,000 mark over the coming weeks.  Preliminary results show that the performance of each individual sub-region across the city is diverse, with clearance rates as low as 50 per cent In Baulkham Hills and Hawkesbury (albeit on a very low volume of auctions with just 12 results reported) and as strong as 88.2 per cent for the City and Inner South Region and 88 per cent across the Eastern Suburbs.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160222-Sydney.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-6342"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6342" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160222-Sydney.jpg" alt="20160222 Sydney" width="983" height="669"></a>
The preliminary clearance rate for Brisbane was 54.5 per cent this week, compared to a final auction clearance rate of 48.4 per cent last week and a stronger 63.6 per cent last year. More homes went to auction this week (169) compared to last week (111) and relative to last year (119). This week’s preliminary clearance rate for the Gold Coast across the 18 reported results is 50 per cent.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160222-Brisbane.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-6339"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6339" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160222-Brisbane.jpg" alt="20160222 Brisbane" width="969" height="648"></a>
69.9 per cent of Adelaide auctions were successful this week, based on preliminary results. Last week a clearance rate of 75 per cent was reported and one year ago it was significantly lower at 53.3 per cent, however Adelaide’s clearance rate tends to move more than cities with larger auction volumes on a week on week basis.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160222-Adelaide.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-6338"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6338" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160222-Adelaide.jpg" alt="20160222 Adelaide" width="971" height="658"></a>
Preliminary results show 46.2 percent of Perth auctions sold this week, with 13 reported results so far. In comparison, last week the clearance rate was 31.6 percent, while one year ago 46.4 percent of Perth auctions were successful.
This week auction volumes almost doubled in Canberra, with 104 homes taken to auction, compared to 59 last week. Despite the rise in auction activity, Canberra’s preliminary clearance rate has remained steady at 71.2 percent over the past two weeks. Canberra’s auction market has started 2016 in a relatively strong position, with four consecutive weeks of clearance rates above the 70 per cent mark, similar to what we saw one year ago.
There were 10 auctions across Tasmania this week. Based on preliminary results, five of the six reported auctions were successful.
 
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smiller-vwPjRHTkST

Combined capital city clearance rate edges slightly higher to 72.3 percent: Shana Miller 

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A telecommunications facility in the Gold Coast and leased to Vodafone is up for auction by Burgess Rawson on February 23 in Sydney.
The <a href="https://www.burgessrawson.com.au/buying/QLD/Gold-Coast/Arundel/Office/4P0195#.Vshsl8eO7ow" target="_blank">15 Telford Place, Arundel</a> property, just 7 km from the Southport CBD, is one of three Vodafone high-tech facilities in Queensland. 
The company has been occupying the property for 15 years and is on a renewed and secure 10-year net lease to June 2025 with the option to extend to 2035.
The site area measures 2,738 sqm with lettable area of 2,038 sqm.
The property makes a net income of $430,000 pa plus GST (increasing to $445,050 pa plus GST in June 2016). The annual increases are 3.5% until 2020 and 3.25% until 2024 and the tenant pays all outgoings, including Land Tax.
Gold Coast will host the 2018 Commonwealth Games and more than $13.5 billion in infrastructure projects are planned or underway.
The selling agents are Michael Collins and Dean Venturato.
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Telecommunications facility in Gold Coast leased to Vodafone up for auction

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Residential property investment is going to be a political football during 2016, right up to the election and then beyond.
Just which way the investment herd heads will unfold but property markets don't like uncertainty.
As our politicians dwell on how to tax property investors, many will pause their decision making.
Yes some might rush in ahead of any change, but more likely there could be a flight of capital away from rental housing at the very time when the early 2016 sharemarket turmoil was likely to attract investment towards property.
We have a scenario where both the Turnbull Government and Shorten opposition work have mooted significant changes that will reduce tax benefits arising from property investment.
Both major parties seem intent to end the longstanding negative gearing arrangements that have been in place since the Hawke/Keating Government days.
The opposition has also signalled it intends changing the capital gains tax benefits that have been their since the Howard-Costello government, ie halving from 50 per cent to 25 per cent the capital gains tax deduction for investors who sell a property after holding it for at least 12 months.
The Turnbull government is pursuing negative gearers after tentative plans for an increased GST were virtually ditched as too hard.
Then Bill Shorten announced that a Labor government, if elected, would change the rules so that only new homes purchased after July 1, 2017, could be negatively geared.
Existing investors would supposedly not be affected by the grandfathered tax change, but that ignores the disappearance of the potential investor buyer pool into new housing and leaving just owner occupiers to compete for the established home rental offering. 
While the Turnbull government has rejected Labor's policy to restrict negative gearing to new properties, it seemingly plans to target high-end and professional investors by either capping the number of properties that can be geared or limiting the annual tax deductions of which can be claimed.
Earlier this month the Property Council of Australia released data on the number of negatively geared voters in the most marginal seats and threatened a campaign in Labor and Liberal marginal seats should negative gearing be touched.
Their data indicated over 430,000 Australians who negative gear an investment property live in marginal seats held by the Government and the Opposition.
The 10 most marginal Coalition seats have an average of 8,181 investment property owners and the 10 most marginal Labor seats have an average of 8,357 property owners. 
Federal Liberal Craig Laundy in Barton has over 11,000 with a stake in the outcome. Opposition treasury spokeperson Chris Bowen has 7400 negative gearers in his Sydney electorate.
“Mums and dads see owning an investment property as a way of securing their long term prosperity," said Property Council chief executive Ken Morrison.
“To play with negative gearing is to play with the financial futures of 430,000 people who live in the most marginal seats."
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Property investment becomes a political football

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The headlines around the negative gearing policy uncertainty failed to unnerve Sydney's nascent 2016 auction property revival.
The auction success rate sat well above 70 percent for the third successive weekend as earlybird sellers secured strong buyer interest.
When it came to affordability, there were however just the four reported sales at $500,000 or less across Sydney.
A $488,000 sale of a two bedroom fibro at Bradbury was the cheapest result.
"It sold to an investor," Richardson &amp; Wrench Campbelltown agent Michelle Balabka said.
The biggest weekend sale under the hammer was $3.68 million at Curl Curl.
The five bedroom Curl Curl offering had a $3.5 million to $3.85 million price guide (above).
There was also a $3,675,000 South Coogee six bedroom house sale.
"The Sydney market is back in full swing," the auctioneer Damien Cooley said after the result.
There were private treaty sales of an $8 million plus harbourfront in Northbridge and a $6 million sale in Cammeray.
The weekend had 539 homes scheduled to go under the hammer, which was well up on the 336 auctioned last weekend, CoreLogic RP Data noted but below the same weekend last year.
With 80 auctions the inner west the was busiest district followed by the east, the south and the upper north shore all with 70 or more.
Manly, Mosman and Randwick were the busiest weekend auction suburbs.
The lower auction numbers are securing higher clearance rates with the fewer choices increasing competition for available properties, agents suggest.
There is confidence in Sydney eastern suburbs property, says Bob Guth at BradfieldCleary, following a perfect 10 out of 10 at the agency's first auctions of the year.
Bob Guth suggested the "very best time" to market Eastern Suburbs real estate was February when there is less competition.
After the federal opposition's policy was unveiled last weekend - restricting negative gearing to new properties and reducing capital gains discounts available to investors - the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull warned " this should put concern into the minds of every single house owner".
Home owners would see the value of the family home "smashed" under Labor's "very blunt, very crude" negative gearing policy, Malcolm Turnbull warned.
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Negative gearing policy debate fails to unnerve the market

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Rental Bonds Online is a new service helping tenants, agents and private landlords lodge and refund bond money securely and easily.
Tenants can now pay their bond direct to NSW Fair Trading using credit card or BPAY. Agents or landlords can lodge bonds in minutes, at any time, without having to post lodgement forms.
All parties are kept informed through SMS phone notifications and email updates.
Understand how Rental Bonds Online makes bond transactions more convenient. Watch our 3-minute introduction to the service:
<a href="https://youtu.be/5rRUdOgQEnY" target="_blank" title="Rental Bonds Online - the smart way to manage your bond (video)"><img src="https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/biz_res/ftweb/Images/About_us/Online_services/Rental_bonds_online_video.jpg" alt="Rental Bonds Online video" width="225" height="175"></a> Watch the video - Rental Bonds Online: the smart way to manage your bond (Internet Explorer users please right click on the video and select ‘Open link’ to watch.)  
The video is also available in the following languages:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEXcnl6sjLI" target="_blank">Rental Bonds Online: the smart way to manage your bond (video in Arabic) </a> 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ane7EYv-uSA" target="_blank">Rental Bonds Online: the smart way to manage your bond </a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ane7EYv-uSA" target="_blank">(video in Chinese)</a> </li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL6a9ujyDSI" target="_blank">Rental Bonds Online: the smart way to manage your bond</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL6a9ujyDSI" target="_blank"> (video in Korean)</a>
</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzpKX9XQUnE" target="_blank">Rental Bonds Online: the smart way to manage your bond (video in Vietnamese)</a></li>
</ul>
Agents, private landlords and tenants can access the Rental Bonds Online site using a desktop computer or any mobile device such as a tablet or mobile phone.
<ul>
<li>A new feature released in late 2015 directs tenants using their smartphone to a version of the Rental Bonds Online site optimised for smaller devices.  This gives tenants access to all the core functions on Rental Bonds Online so they can create an account, lodge and claim bond money, and check the status of their bond. They can also navigate to the full site if they need to access other functions within Rental Bonds Online.</li>
</ul>
How to register and find out more
Visit the relevant page to you to learn more, including how to register as a Rental Bonds Online user:
<a href="https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/ftw/About_us/Online_services/Rental_bonds_online/For_property_agents.page" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">For property agents</a> <a href="https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/ftw/About_us/Online_services/Rental_bonds_online/For_tenants.page" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">For tenants</a> <a href="https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/ftw/About_us/Online_services/Rental_bonds_online/For_private_landlords.page" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">For private landlords</a>
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

Property 101: NSW rental bonds online

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A nondescript $5.71 million Kew home topped the nation's weekend auction results with most of the six bidders planning to bulldoze the five bedroom, two storey brick home. It was built in the 1950s for the family of renowned expat Australian violinist Neville Taweel.
Just kms away from pricey 78 Sackville Street, a Brunswick offering was the nation's cheapest result.
It was the rather plain $216,000 one bedroom, single storey townhouse at 16/6 Garnet Street. Something of a pass the parcel seems to be going on it as had sold only two years ago at $229,500 and even higher at $240,000 in boomtime 2010, being a $240 a week rental in the meantime.
So all the attention fell on a contemporary Hawthorn East offering that was briefly the backdrop on the reality show, The Real Housewives of Melbourne as the rental home of Jackie Gillies, the wife of Silverchair drummer, Ben Gillies. 
A glamorous 1888 Victorian era home – with a 2010 extension by architect Steve Domoney - was their $2500 a week rental in season one on Foxtel.
Marshall White agent James Tostevin expected 2A Harcourt Street to sell for $3.5 million plus with it fetching $4,105,000 million, some $400,000 over reserve at its weekend auction.
Nothing so over the top in Sydney where the strengthening hammer success rate is mostly seeing results within the pre-auction price guidance.
The Sydney clearance rate sat well above 70 percent for the third successive weekend as earlybird sellers secured strong buyer interest.
When it came to affordability however, there were however just the four reported sales at $500,000 or less across Sydney.
A $488,000 sale of a two bedroom fibro at Bradbury, near Campbelltown, was the cheapest result with 15 Bland Street selling to an investor.
It appeared that the weekend auction buyers ignored the week-long headlines around the negative gearing policy uncertainty.
The CoreLogic RP Data capital city results pointed to a continuing or resurgent seller’s market, though auction bidders are being more measured to avoid runaway prices.
 
<a href="/images/2016/02/22/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-22%20at%209.28.17%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/22/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-22%20at%209.28.17%20AM.png" alt="">
Sydney ranked as the strongest mainland capital city over the past week with a 77 per cent success rate.
The scarcity of early February listings has seen the clearance rate bounce off the canvas, well up on being in the 50s last December.
Next strongest mainland capital over the past week was Melbourne at 73 per cent. Melbourne sales yesterday included Helikon, the ornate 1890s Albert Park home of retired radio medico personality Dr Paul Nisselle – broadcaster on 3LO from the early 1980s - which fetched $2.72 million.
It last traded at $1.89 million in 2009.
But Michael Wipfli, the current day Nova FM breakfast presenter, couldn't sell his Armadale home (above) which was passed in at $1.8 million. It last traded at $1.48 million in 2010, when listed with $1.25 million to $1.35 million hopes.
It had been listed through Jellis Craig agent Simon Dale with price expectations above $1.7 million, and now listed at $1.95 million.
Last week auction volumes almost doubled in Canberra, with 104 homes taken to auction. Despite the rise in auction activity, Canberra’s preliminary clearance rate has remained steady at 71, now with four consecutive weeks of clearance rates above the 70 per cent mark, similar to early 2015.
The overall national clearance rate of 72 per cent compared to last year’s results of 77 per cent, with Brisbane's results especially dragging the national figure down. 
But only Adelaide's 70 percent clearance rate was above the same level last year.
There are 1200 plus auctions scheduled for next weekend in Melbourne, suggesting an interesting few weeks as auction stock levels face the traditional pre-Easter escalation. Sydney sees 1000 plus weeks coming up.
"Auction activity will continue to ramp up which will test the resilience of auction markets on higher volumes," CoreLogic RP Data's Kevin Brogan noted.
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Nova's Michael Wipfli fails to sell in Armadale

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Australians are becoming more savvy with saving money on their home loans, with the number of mortgage customers opting to refinance their loans at an all-time high, according to new analysis by the comparison website finder.com.au.
The finder.com.au analysis of the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Housing Finance data reveals that almost 22,000 Australians refinanced their mortgages in December 2015.
<a href="/images/2016/02/22/pasted%20image%200.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/22/pasted%20image%200.png" alt="">
 Bessie Hassan, Consumer Advocate at<a href="https://finder.us9.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=cc5e9bce699fa1d71a67cf499&amp;id=2e5f42edd2&amp;e=58cd8ffd03" target="_blank"> </a>finder.com.au, says that trend is expected to continue as customers rush to take advantage of historically low interest rates. “In fact, the total value of refinanced home loans is forecasted to reach $100 billion this year, an increase from the record $77 billion in 2015, according to finder.com.au research. “With signs pointing to a rate rise in the near future, now is a great time for homeowners to consider refinancing. As it stands, the cash rate is at a historical low and providers are offering among the lowest rates ever seen – borrowers can potentially save thousands of dollars per year by making the switch to a better deal. “For example, the 21,896 Australians who refinanced their home loans last December collectively would have saved about $148 million in interest by <a href="https://finder.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=cc5e9bce699fa1d71a67cf499&amp;id=5235f5664e&amp;e=58cd8ffd03" target="_blank">fixing their mortgage</a> for three years at a cheaper rate,” says Ms Hassan. That’s based on a $354,614 average 30-year home loan refinanced from the current 5.11% standard variable rate (SVR) to the average 3-year fixed rate at 4.59%, assuming a return to the current SVR after three years. “That’s an impressive $6,771 saving per homeowner over the fixed period of the loan,” says Ms Hassan. The number of home loans being refinanced has surged by 20 percent in the past twelve months compared to December 2014 (18,183 refinances in December 2014 vs 21,896 refinances in December 2015). Further to this, interest in finder.com.au’s<a href="https://finder.us9.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=cc5e9bce699fa1d71a67cf499&amp;id=f2375a9e33&amp;e=58cd8ffd03" target="_blank"> refinancing home loans hub</a> has skyrocketed 331% in the past month, compared to the same period last year. “This indicates that low interest rates and money savings are top of mind for borrowers – which is the way it should be,” says Hassan. “As with any major financial decision, shop around, because rates and fees can vary significantly between lenders.  “If you’d prefer to stick with your current lender, get in touch with the customer retention team and try to negotiate a better rate. “Remember, there could be huge financial rewards to be reaped, but first you’ve got to do your homework.”
The top variable loans monitored by <a href="https://finder.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=cc5e9bce699fa1d71a67cf499&amp;id=7746572958&amp;e=58cd8ffd03" target="_blank">finder.com.au</a> right now are:
<a href="/images/2016/02/22/8cfe836e-f966-4e79-98a9-67adf2e19422.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/22/8cfe836e-f966-4e79-98a9-67adf2e19422.png" alt="">
The top 3-year fixed loans monitored by <a href="https://finder.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=cc5e9bce699fa1d71a67cf499&amp;id=612c441eef&amp;e=58cd8ffd03" target="_blank">finder.com.au</a> right now are:
<a href="/images/2016/02/22/2d757f50-3bdd-493a-8afb-1f268314e9b3.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/22/2d757f50-3bdd-493a-8afb-1f268314e9b3.png" alt="">
 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

The best home loan rates on offer: finder.com.au

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The NSW Central Coast house market was peaking, according to the latest HTW property clock.
Horsham is the another city to now sit at the peak.
Melbourne, Newscatle and Dubbo remain at the peak. 
HTW suggest the Central Coast’s strong market in 2015 was undoubtedly underpinned by Sydney based buyers finding themselves unable to compete in the Sydney market.
"This resulted in better than average rises in property values across the region," HTW suggested.
Although afte a strong period leading to October, the year ended with a 'bit of a whimper" for the region’s market.
"Sales volumes fell somewhat and we really didn’t see any continuing increases in values.
What HTW did notice however was:
• The sudden departure of Asian buyers having a noticeable effect on sale volumes;
• Purchase prices being nearer and sometimes below indicated asking prices as opposed to new records being set every other day;
• Buyers being a little more selective and acting with slightly less urgency;
• The much hyped talk of new residential unit developments in Gosford and other regionally significant developments falling away on whispers that presales and interest were less than expected and project finance was difficult to secure;
• Increased positivity in the retail sector that had been missing for the past several end of year periods.
HTW anticipate if previous property cycles are to be repeated, then the region’s market will be slowing as one property cycle ends and another starts.
"We have felt the market has been at its peak for some time now and a slowdown around the corner, but the peak lasted longer than we expected.
"This is the main difference between this cycle which has been building slowly by comparison over several years and is more controlled as opposed to previous cycles which experienced faster rises over shorter periods.
"Confidence in the market is a good thing, but we think that 2016 should be a year where buyers and investors will need to be more pragmatic and research especially well.
HTW think that while some of the region’s 160 suburbs will see a fall in values this year, most will continue to trade close to or near current values, but with reduced volumes.
Areas likely to see a drop in value will be those where values increased well beyond levels that we as valuers were comfortable with.
"This include areas such as Umina Beach and Woy Woy where values have risen extraordinarily (between 47% and 49% over the past three years) to the point where they are now in direct competition with some Sydney suburbs and a wane in demand seems inevitable as buyers switch their attention to other suburbs.
"It may also be time to be wary of Wyoming and Kariong where residential values have risen quite significantly (upwards of 10% over a twelve month period) and need time to settle down again.
"Something for buyers to be wary of is the unit market in Gosford where close to 700 units have been approved recently.
"Many sites are still in the pre-construction phase and if too many start and finish in a short time frame, then we will no doubt be in an oversupply situation which tends to play havoc with the market."
HTW suggest another sign that confidence has returned to the market is the presence of buyers at the higher end of the region’s value range.
"Absent for some time, some say the return of these buyers provides a restorative factor in the market.
"Suburbs likely to see increased levels of popularity and well worth watching include Pearl Beach, Avoca Beach, Narara, Niagara Park, Bateau Bay and Budgewoi.
"These are suburbs that inexplicably seem to have escaped the attention of buyers during the recent period of increased market activity.
"Two areas well worth a watch and act approach include Woongarrah and Hamlyn Terrace.
"These are suburbs considered attractive to a range of purchasers including first home buyers, young families, commuters and investors due to their affordability levels and good local infrastructure." 
Canberra apartments have joined the other capitals, Brisbane and Melbourne at a market peak in February, according to the latest HTW property clock.
 
<a href="/images/2016/02/08/700_HTW_Houses.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge</a>.
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NSW Central Coast houses at top of market: HTW property clock

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The rise of alternate funding may be the next big thing in developer financing following APRA's tightening oversight of banks, if we are to interpret recent commentary by Daniel Holden, director of construction finance group Holden Capital.
The pressure on major banks to meet capital adequacy levels under the Basil III accord has reduced their appetite for construction lending, says Holden in one of his posts. To achieve their objectives, banks have raised the bar for developers in terms of their pre-conditions, cut gearing levels and increased their pricing on debt, effectively implementing a flight to quality and leaving many of the their traditional but more marginal clients in terms of credit strength, looking for alternative funding sources, he says.
Record low interest rates have come as a boon then, encouraging developers to shift to alternate funding.
In FY15, Holden Capital settled 64% of its deals with the major banks but this quickly changed with 62% of the $300 million of project debt settling before Christmas likely to be set with alternative funding sources, a pre-Christmas post said.
While alternative funding sources may have some additional costs, they also come with distinct benefits to developers who do not want to be restricted in their ability to look for market opportunities due to constraints placed by traditional banks.
As an example, non-bank money can cost as low as 9-10% per annum, which when compared to the traditional bank cost on a medium sized projects of say 30 products, would add as little as $170,000 or 10% variance on normal finance costs to a project with a total cost of $6 million.
Alternative funding also offers a developer the potential for significant savings in other areas such as the chance to start the project without the need for pre-sales, unlike when approaching banks. The developer can lock in a construction price and reduce escalation risk as well as sell houses with a more certain delivery date, rather than the more speculative off the plan route required to meet banks' pre-sale criteria, Holden adds.
According to a case study by Holden Capital, bank and non-bank lenders have different requirements regarding loan ratios. Most non-bank lenders are so called gross realisation (GR) lenders and the main criterion for them is a loan to value ratio (LVR) of no more than 65%. Banks also require a maximum LVR of 65%, but in addition they impose a limit of no more than 80% of the total development cost (TDC).
The bank option benefits from a significantly lower total interest cost, but the non-bank alternative does not require the delay of between 3-6 months associated with the pre-sales requirement and benefits from a lower requirement on developer equity with the potential for a significantly increased return on investment.
Holden has also summarised the kind of developers best placed to succeed in this environment.
The 'Phoenix' developer, who were successful pre-GFC but rapidly declined during the GFC due to unfortunate dealings with their creditors but are now rising again Phoenix-like. Typically this type of developer is very experienced, but misjudged the state of the market and their level of exposure to it during the GFC, he says. Now they are back out there, wiser from experience and unlikely to make the same mistakes. They are more conservative with their own limited capital and looking for equity partners to leverage their position. Holden predicts that the 'Phoenix' developers will most likely be successful in the coming years.
The other is the cautious developer, who identifies risk upfront and finds ways to mitigate these as much as possible. They also realise that they don’t know everything, and won’t hesitate to utilise the skills of others, where there is a gap in their knowledge and skills base. In reality, they are the 'Smart Developer', he concludes.
According to Holden, Australia has a deep market of passive investors willing to take equity positions on development projects. In conclusion, developers could achieve much more if they use the right consultants and redirect their energy and time into enhancing their core skill sets, which would reflect in long-term success.
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