Nature Based Cities (NBC), the not-for-profit organisation focused on improving biodiversity and nature outcomes in urban development, has launched its latest industry design guidelines and accreditation framework, this time targeting precinct-scale residential communities.

The move extends NBC’s influence beyond its initial focus on medium and high-density residential developments. Several projects have already achieved NBC accreditation since the launch of its Medium &amp; High-Density Residential Guidelines in early 2025.

The expansion into masterplanned communities and new residential precincts reflects the growing need for stronger nature-positive benchmarks as Australia’s outer suburban growth corridors continue to expand at pace.

Paul Hameister OAM, NBC Founder and the Executive Chairman of Melbourne developer Hamton who itself leans heavily into nature and biodiversity in its developments, says the&nbsp;nature-first approach to mitigate the effects of climate change has become standard in other parts of the world such as the UK, but Australia is lagging.&nbsp;Australia’s environmentally sustainable design (ESD) rating tools have no minimum mandatory requirements for living landscapes.

“We’ve always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren’t there,” Hameister says. “In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that’s concrete and glass with not a blade of grass. 
 
“The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn’t been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities.”

He says that having now&nbsp;made good progress in supporting developers of medium and high-density residential projects, NBC is now looking to bolster better nature-based decision-making and recognise developers of greenfield projects in the outer ring and large inner-ring brownfield precincts, who want to champion nature and living landscape as a defining feature.

Since 2022, the not-for-profit has sought to remove the roadblocks preventing developers from incorporating nature and living landscapes into their projects, shifting the conversation from the reduction of emissions and grey infrastructure, toward recognising nature as an essential infrastructure.

The New Communities Design Guidelines and Scorecard arm developers with the tools needed to deliver a nature positive outcome for their new communities. Intended to be adopted at the outset of the planning process, the guidelines are designed to help create communities that are cooler, healthier and more resilient while also enhancing social wellbeing and long-term economic value.&nbsp;

New Communities developers seeking accreditation will be independently assessed across a range of key criteria including ecology, tree canopy, biodiversity, and walkability. Once the masterplan is complete and submitted for approval, the scorecard is formalised based on proposed outcomes. Projects that meet the NBC criteria will receive either Commended or Exemplary accreditation outcomes, creating a clear benchmark for nature-positive new communities in Australia.&nbsp;

Janis Fischer, Director at Tract and NBC Advisory Council member, said the development of new communities in our suburbs can have a substantial impact on nature and biodiversity.

"By incorporating nature-based design principles at the inception of a project, developers and their design teams can achieve nature positive outcomes that are good for both people and the planet.’’&nbsp;

NBC accredited New Community projects will gain access to NBC branding and marketing tools to help communicate their nature-based credentials to purchasers and the broader market.&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Nature Based Cities: A new Australian benchmark for developing nature-positive new communities

Apartment buildings are increasingly being designed around how people actually live day to day, not just how they want a building to look.

For buyers, that shift is showing up in practical inclusions that respond to changing habits. Work-from-home spaces, EV charging, wellness amenities, secure bike storage and parcel management are becoming part of the broader apartment conversation, reflecting a move toward buildings that reduce friction in everyday life.

Online shopping has become one of the clearest examples of that change.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online. That has made parcel delivery a regular part of apartment living, rather than an occasional inconvenience.

For apartment residents, however, the delivery process can be less straightforward than it is for detached homes. Parcels may be left in lobbies, redirected to Post Offices, missed entirely, or placed under the responsibility of building managers and concierge teams.

That is why secure parcel infrastructure is increasingly being considered alongside more familiar apartment amenities.

<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/-VjjLwoViX0?si=A3k7ws9NX35Uac7_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post Parcel Lockers offer one way to address the issue. When a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS, then collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN. The parcel is kept secure, accessible and removed from common areas.

The broader Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations across Australia, positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and other accessible locations.

For new apartment projects, the relevance is clear. A building’s amenity offering is no longer only about lifestyle spaces, but also about convenience, security and functionality.

As buyer expectations evolve, secure parcel delivery is becoming part of the same design conversation as flexible working, sustainable transport and resident wellbeing.

It is one less thing for residents to worry about, and another example of apartment design adapting to the way Australians now live.

Apartment design is adapting to the way Australians shop

While school holidays and trips to Europe tend to define the winter property market, there's been no cold snap at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> in North Sydney.

Developer-builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a> sold more than $35 million worth of apartments throughout June, including a $6.8 million apartment that now ranks among the highest apartment sales ever recorded in North Sydney.

SRM Residential agent Ben Stewart said buyer demand throughout June reflected a mix of improving market confidence and longer-term thinking from owner-occupiers.

"We're seeing strong demand from owner-occupiers who are taking a longer-term view," Stewart said.

"Many recognise the opportunity to secure an apartment in an iconic building and premium location while values remain attractive. They may initially lease the property, but the intention is to eventually move in themselves, rather than purchasing purely as an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=367129]

Located at 177 Walker Street, The Walden will deliver 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across a 30-storey tower designed by Rothelowman. Every apartment occupies a corner position, maximising natural light, cross ventilation and views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Heads and the northern districts.

Rather than a traditional balcony, the residences feature winter gardens that seamlessly extend the open plan living areas, creating versatile spaces for relaxing or entertaining throughout the year. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws in natural light while showcasing sweeping views from the building's elevated Walker Street position.

Every apartment features high-end Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, and fully integrated appliances.

The larger residences have been planned with distinct entertaining and private zones, with many master suites positioned on corners to capture natural light and harbour views. Walk-in dressing rooms, freestanding baths and refined stone finishes reinforce the house-like feel that has resonated with downsizers and owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6393]

Rothelowman Principal Ben Pomroy said the project was designed to make the most of its unique position overlooking the harbour.

"The Walden is a celebration of all things beautiful, curated for those who expect nothing less than exceptional," Pomroy says.

"Meticulously designed entertaining spaces and light-filled living areas that capitalise on capturing the natural beauty of Sydney's iconic harbour."

Residents will also have exclusive access to The Pavilion, a dedicated amenity building featuring a rooftop pool, wellness studio, gymnasium, sauna, concierge service, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and work-from-home facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6402]

The project marks ALAND's first major luxury apartment development in Sydney's inner-city market after more than two decades delivering residential communities across Greater Sydney.

Founder and CEO Andrew Hrsto previously said the rarity of the Walker Street site made it an opportunity the company could not overlook.

"This is a rare opportunity to bring a truly exceptional project to life in one of Sydney's most iconic locations, and to showcase our craftsmanship and design expertise at a world-class level," Hrsto said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6383]

The Walden has been introduced to the market at a time when demand for living in North Sydney is at an all-time high. Billions of dollars have been invested in infrastructure, including the recently opened Victoria Cross Metro station, located just 300 metres from The Walden, providing residents with direct access to the Sydney CBD in just minutes.

Private investment has also transformed the area through the arrival of new retail and dining destinations, elevating the lifestyle offering in what was once considered primarily a commercial precinct rather than an aspirational residential address.

The Walden is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

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.

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

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?

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Senior research analyst at CoreLogic Cameron Kusher has said that he thinks apartments are getting smaller and smaller across the country.
He expressed his opinion through his twitter handle <a href="https://twitter.com/cmkusher" target="_blank">@cmkusher</a> this morning but suggested other country's are far worse off.
His opinions come as former Victorian premier turned media commentator Jeff Kennett took a swipe at developers when spoke to the Australian Financial Review - on Caydon's $1 billion high-rise proposal for the historic Nylex silos
Kennett told The Australian Financial Review, ahead of the release of new Victorian apartment design guidelines that Melbourne developers were building too many small, poorly designed apartments and cramming too many apartments into small sites in the suburbs.
"We're going to hit a brick wall soon," he said.
The Macrobusiness website picked up on the shoebox living theme.
Caydon said the company was "committed to landing on an outcome that creates a new and interesting place for people to work and live."  
<img src="/images/2016/01/22/Screen%20Shot%202016-01-21%20at%2011.34.22%20am.png" alt="" width="1036" height="303">
 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Tweet of the day: Cameron Kusher believes units are getting smaller and smaller

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The Victorian property market finished 2015 on a high with a record number of auctions held in November and December.
While median house price growth is expected to moderate this year, population increases, a robust economy and relatively low interest rates will encourage buyer interest in 2016.  In 2016 the REIV expects moderate growth across the city with further price increases in a range of suburbs in Melbourne’s inner, middle and outer rings.
Some suburbs to watch in 2016 are: WEST OF THE CBD
Footscray - Close to the CBD and recorded double-digit growth in 2015. Footscray remains affordable given its location in Melbourne’s inner ring. Improving infrastructure and gentrification likely to result in solid long-term growth.  Median price: $780,000 Altona - Close to the CBD (13km) and to the bay and has seen double digit growth in 2015. Private sales market tightened in 2015 and clearance rate increased, despite listings being up 17 per cent.  Median price: $710,125 Sunshine - Still offers very affordable buying and is within 11km of the Melbourne city centre. Larger land blocks are proving attractive to both buyers and developers. Median price: $530,000 Spotswood - Another inner west Melbourne suburbs which is poised for further growth in 2016. Despite listings increasing significantly in 2015, the median days on market fell 23 days and clearance rate improved 13 per cent.  Median house price remains well below the inner Melbourne median of $1,236,000. Median price: $775,000 NORTH OF THE CBD Preston – Has seen solid growth in recent months, reflected in strong private sales activity (median number of days on market declined seven days in 2015). Located within 10km of the CBD, Preston’s median house price remains well below the inner Melbourne median of $1,236,000. Median house price: $815,000       Epping – Located on the fringe of Melbourne’s middle ring, Epping recorded solid price growth in 2015, driven by a strong private sale market. Poised for further increases in the coming 12 months.  Median price: $432,750. EAST OF THE CBD  Burwood East - A big growth area with extensive development underway at present. While the median house price is high, days on market continue to fall (down from 37 days in 2014 to 30 days in the past 12 months) showing increasing buyer interest. Median price: $1,004m Montrose – Has a relatively affordable median house price for those buying in Melbourne’s east and has shown good signs of capital growth in the past 12 months (up 10%). A significant drop in median days on market in 2015 (down 11 days to 19 days) has resulted in a strong private sales market. Median price: $600,000 Mount Waverley - Experienced one of the highest median price increases of any Melbourne suburb in 2015, up more than 20 per cent, but should still see growth this year. Attractive to foreign investors and quality local schools (Mt Waverley Secondary College) are also proving to be a key driver for buyers.  Median price: $1.38m Glen Waverley – Middle-eastern suburb which has been in the spotlight in 2015, and will continue in 2016. Given it is zoned for quality public school Glen Waverley Secondary College, buyer demand is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.   Median price: $1.319m SOUTH OF THE CBD  Seaford - Bayside and has experienced strong growth in the past six months. Like Sunshine, is also very affordable. Strong private sales activity and clearance rate.   Median price: $530,000 Chelsea - Close to the bay and with good transport to the CBD. Saw a strong private sale market and solid auction activity in 2015 as well as double-digit annual growth. Should be a solid year ahead.                
Median price: $727,000
‎Enzo Raimondo is chief executive officer of <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/" target="_blank">The Real Estate Institute of Victoria</a>.
 
{mijopolls 126}
 
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enzoraimond-7fvRFHPR52

12 Melbourne suburbs to watch in 2016: REIV's Enzo Raimondo

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People moving to live and work in Australia naturally gravitate to the big cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, but research suggests regional parts of the country are becoming more popular.
One of the issues is that house prices in most capital cities are becoming beyond the reach of many, so a growing number of people living in Australia are deciding to ditch the inner city lifestyle for more laidback regional centres around the country.<a href="https://www.australiaforum.com/wp/wp-content/files/2013/09/perth_australia.jpg"></a>
Indeed regional internal migration estimates from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) highlight some interesting trends about where people are moving to.
According to an analysis of the figures, while several factors have contributed to the gaining rise in city dwellers moving to regional areas, it is affordability that is the main concern.
According to a report from international real estate firm Knight Frank, with the median house price in Sydney nudging the AUD$1 million mark and Melbourne not too far behind at AUD$730,000, people are moving rather than increasing their mortgage.
Over the five years to June 2014, the latest available data shows that an average of almost 15,000 people net per annum left Australia’s capital cities for regional areas. Over this period, the largest outbound movement came from Sydney with average of 19,257 net per annum leaving.
Regional New South Wales experienced the largest inflow, gaining an average of 6,824 persons net per annum, most notably to coastal locations such as Port Macquarie and Shoalhaven.
Over the five year period, Perth and Brisbane were the only capital cities to record an internal migration gain which the report says is reflective of strong employment gains recorded for the period, underpinned by professional services associated with mining construction.
A recent softening in labour market conditions, particularly in Greater Perth, is likely to have stemmed the inflow of internal migrants to these cities while at the same time constraining property market conditions. Alternatively, buoyed net overseas migration has more than offset the decline in internal migration to all capital cities.
By age, the attraction of capital cities due to tertiary education, employment opportunities and the “bright lights” has ensured strong growth of young adults in their late teens and twenties. On average, 13,000 people net per annum aged between 15 to 24 moved to one of Australia’s capital cities.
However for other age groups, particularly those aged 45 to 64 and retired people aged 65 plus, the outbound movement to regional locations has been extensive at 18,505 and 2,685 persons per annum respectively.
“With migration rates acting as a reasonable proxy for housing demand, the pickup in internal migration outside of our capital cities is likely to bode well for regional property markets and economies,” said Luke Crawford, an analyst with Knight Frank Australia.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a>
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Why buyers are off to regional Australia: Terry Ryder

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The multi-award winning Balmain House has been listed.
Balmain House was designed by the current owner, architect Conrad Johnston, from his multi-award winning practice Fox Johnston.
Conrad's practice was named one of Wallpaper magazines' top 20 young architecture practices in the world in 2013.
Bought in 2006, the owners redesigned and rebuilt the property on the 241 sqm site and completed renovations in 2013.
The private family home went on to win multiple awards and featured in Domain's Collectors Edition.
The home has a north-facing garden with views over the harbour and Anzac bridge.
The four bedroom home wraps around the original workers' cottage has a sculpted timber form hovering above the ground which contains the main bedroom, ensuite, library and study.
Low maintenance materials were used by Conrad who also installed a natural ventilation system and hydronic heating which heats and cools at low costs.
The owners described the house as like living in the country, as you see no houses from the ground floor, just trees and skies.
Conrad lives in the house with his wife Katrina and their three small children but has decided to sell as he wants another project.
Peter Gordon of Cobden &amp; Hayson has the listing of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/2-stewart-pl-balmain-nsw-2041" target="_blank">2 Stewart Place</a> with $2.4 million plus hopes.
The property will go to auction February 20. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Balmain architectural stunner listed

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Westpac chief economist Bill Evans has released the Westpac-Melbourne institute index of consumer sentiment.
There was a decline overall, but some optimism to be had with a spike in time to buy dwelling confidence.
The report showed an overall confidence decline of 3.5 percent from 100.8 in December to 97.3 in January, it's lowest level since September 2015.
However the index remains 4.3 percent above its level this time last year.
There were quick responses on twitter from Forex and FX options trader Mark Carrington (<a href="https://twitter.com/go4forexprofits" target="_blank">@go4forexprofits</a>).
The senior manager at research group BIS Shrapnel Angie Zigomanis was also quick to respond to the news, telling Domain there may still be some growth for New South Wales and Victoria.
The figures have received worldwide attention with tweets coming from Miami and England.
Global markets and economics reporter for Business Insider Australia David Scutt (<a href="https://twitter.com/David_Scutt" target="_blank">@David_Scutt</a>) tweeted a summary from Westpac regarding the housing sentiment. 
<a href="/news/nsw-cautious-but-encouraging-spike-in-housing-confidence-westpacs-bill-evans">For Bill Evans full commentary click here</a>
 
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Tweet of the day: Westpac-Melbourne index sees January confidence decline, but housing up

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GUEST OBSERVER
Australia’s economy is showing considerable resilience in the face of falling commodity prices and China’s slowdown.
Growth is rebalancing away from mining to housing and services, supported by low interest rates and a lower AUD.
Loose financial conditions are expected to support further solid, albeit below average, growth of 2.6% in 2016, while low inflation leaves room for another RBA cut, now expected in 2Q.
More rebalancing ahead 
 Commodity prices have fallen to a 12-year low, China’s growth has slowed, global trade has been anaemic and yet, Australia’s domestic activity indicators have been lifting. Local jobs growth has picked up, business conditions have been at seven-year highs and consumer sentiment has been rising. Why?  The answer is: Australia’s growth is rebalancing. How is this possible? Well, first, the mining sector is only 10% of the economy, so its influence is not as pervasive as is often thought. Second, Australia is the lowest cost producer of iron ore and has long-term contracts to sell LNG, so export volumes are still ramping up. 
Third, when the mining boom was strong, much of the rest of the economy was held back by tight financial conditions, which meant that there has been significant scope for a pick-up in the non-mining sectors in response to loosened financial conditions: low interest rates have driven a housing boom and the lower AUD has lifted net services exports.  2016 is set to see a continuation of this rebalancing theme. Mining investment is set to fall again, while resources export volumes rise further, driven by new LNG projects ramping up production. The housing boom, which had been the first stage of the rebalancing act, appears to be cooling, but the services sectors have now taken the ‘growth baton’ and are driving job creation. Australia’s trade connections to Asia are set to continue to broaden beyond resources, to services and agricultural products.  Low inflation means the RBA has scope to cut further, although financial stability concerns are making it reluctant. Our central view has another cut, now in 2Q (previously 1Q). However, a tangible fall in the AUD could obviate the need for it. We believe policymakers should be focused on structural and budgetary reform in the lead up to this year’s Federal election (likely to be in September or October). The clearest downside risk is a sharp downturn in China. However, this would now probably need to have a significant impact on Chinese households, and their willingness to buy Australian services and assets, to see a significant local downturn. 
 
Housing boom is cooling, but a soft landing is expected
 
Following rapid growth in Sydney and Melbourne housing prices, which are up 46% and 32%, respectively, over the past four years, there are now some signs that these housing markets are cooling (Chart 13 and 14). We expect national housing price growth to slow to 3-4% in 2016, down from 10% in 2015.
<a href="/images/2016/01/20/Screen%20Shot%202016-01-20%20at%2010.44.42%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/01/20/Screen%20Shot%202016-01-20%20at%2010.44.42%20AM.png" alt="">
 
The slowdown is expected to be driven by tighter lending standards that have been imposed by the prudential regulator, recent mortgage rate increases by the major banks (in response to higher capital requirements), some reduction in housing affordability due to the recent ramp up in housing prices, and a ramp up in housing supply, due to the recent residential construction boom. 
The residential construction ramp up has helped to reduce a previously accumulated housing undersupply (Chart 15). Our estimates suggest the national market will still have an undersupply until 2017, although this aggregate hides pockets of potential oversupply in areas such as the Melbourne and Brisbane apartment markets. 
<a href="/images/2016/01/20/Screen%20Shot%202016-01-20%20at%2010.45.45%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/01/20/Screen%20Shot%202016-01-20%20at%2010.45.45%20AM.png" alt="">
The slowdown in housing price growth and construction means that these are expected to contribute less to GDP growth in 2016, although we still expect a positive contribution from construction (Chart 16). There is also likely to be a lagged wealth effect from the previous housing price gains that could support some spending (via reduced household savings).
Although we expect the housing boom to cool in 2016, we expect national housing prices and construction to maintain modest positive momentum, supporting GDP growth.
<a href="https://www.about.hsbc.com.au/hsbc-in-australia/management-team" target="_blank">Paul Bloxham</a> is chief economist (Australia and New Zealand) for HSBC.
 
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RBA has scope to cut further: HSBC's Paul Bloxham

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GUEST OBSERVER
Investors splashed out a record $29 billion to purchase commercial property (more than $2m) – office, industrial and retail - in the 12 months to December nationally, up 20 percent on the last two years with foreign investors taking a 38 percent share.
The total, comprising more than $17.2 billion worth of office transactions, $4.8 billion worth of industrial transactions and $7 billion worth of retail property transactions, is an extraordinary 32 percent up on the five year average of $22 billion following a similar rise on the $18 billion average in the previous year.
It was more likely than not that significant levels of investment would continue with foreign investment, particularly from China, and institutions, the key players.
What we have seen over the last three years has been an extraordinary investment market in terms of sales by number and value.
Local trusts and funds along with foreign investors have dominated the markets, however in 2015 domestic institutions, recovering from the GFC and replacing private investors as competitive buyers once again, have suddenly found themselves outbid.
While institutional investors were the second largest player with 35 per cent of purchasers, their share of the market had fallen from 48 percent (Funds 31 percent, Trusts 17 percent) in 2014 to 35 percent (Funds 21 percent, Trusts 14 percent) in 2015, while the foreign investor take at 38 percent was more than 70 percent up on its 22 percent share in 2014.
Weakness in the currency, high relative yields and economic growth (however below trend) had been the key drivers while the large amount of off-shore capital seeking  Australian property had encouraged many domestic investors to dispose of property, reweight portfolios and change exposures.
This led to a record year of approximately $29 billion of turnover in commercial property. Conversely, many market fundamentals demonstrated the two-tone nature of the Australian economy – some indicators deteriorated in Perth and Brisbane, many showed substantial improvement in Melbourne and Sydney. Brisbane appeared to have reached a base whilst Melbourne and Sydney continue to improve.
The capital markets had exhibited greater degrees of volatility throughout the year and had finished the year largely unchanged with the ASX200 returning around 1 per cent, the Australian dollar down over 10% against the US dollar and 10 year bonds yielding approximately 2.8 percent.
While property yields have firmed across the board returns remain significantly higher with unlisted property returning up to 10 percent and AREITS returning 13 percent over the last five years. There is no doubt this has also had an impact on investment decisions.
He said the firming of investment yields had yet to fully run its course.
In some markets fundamentals are improving rapidly. We believe this will lead to further tightening in yields as investment capital starts to price in expectations of future NOI (net operating income) growth. This part of the yield cycle is just beginning.
At a glance:
Office sales - $17.2 billion in sales; previous year $16.7 billion; five year average $12.4 billion. 221 properties sold, 326 in 2014.  Foreign investors purchased 45 percent of the stock ($7.6 billion).
Industrial sales - $4.8 billion in sales; previous year $5.55 billion; five year average $3.8 billion;  221 properties sold, 277 in previous year. Foreign investors purchased 36 percent:
Retail sales - $7 billion in sales ; previous year $7.2 billion; five year average $5,8 billion. 197 properties were sold, down from the previous year of 221. Foreign investors purchased 26 percent.
Tony Crabb is Savills Australia’s national head of research and can be contacted <a href="https://www.savills.com.au/blog/author/109174/Tony" target="_blank">here</a>. 
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Foreigners take 38% of record commercial property sales: Tony Crabb

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Australia Post has warned recent changes to domestic postage delivery times may interrupt normal mail delivery speeds, possibly affecting the time it takes for residential tenancy notices to be delivered.
Australia Post introducing three different mail delivery speeds on January 4 - express, priority and regular, and warned documents such as notices to vacate, according to the Residential Tenancies Act, must be sent through registered post or be delivered by hand.
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal has warned landlords and managing agents in other states must check how changes will impact notification requirements.
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal produced a comprehensive table (below) to help calculate the minimum days to allow for postage.
<h2>Total minimum days to calculate earliest termination date</h2>
<h3>Residential tenancies</h3>
By regular registered post
<table style="width: 454px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Minimum notice period
</td>
<td>
Posted Sunday or Monday
</td>
<td>
Posted Tuesday to Friday
</td>
<td>
Posted Saturday
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
None
</td>
<td>
5
</td>
<td>
7
</td>
<td>
6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
14 days
</td>
<td>
20
</td>
<td>
22
</td>
<td>
21
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
28 days
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
36
</td>
<td>
35
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
30 days
</td>
<td>
36
</td>
<td>
38
</td>
<td>
37
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
60 days
</td>
<td>
66
</td>
<td>
68
</td>
<td>
67
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
90 days
</td>
<td>
96
</td>
<td>
98
</td>
<td>
97
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
120 days
</td>
<td>
126
</td>
<td>
128
</td>
<td>
127
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
By priority registered post
<table style="width: 373px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Minimum notice period
</td>
<td>
Posted Sunday to Wednesday
</td>
<td>
Posted Thursday or Friday
</td>
<td>
Posted Saturday
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
None
</td>
<td>
3
</td>
<td>
5
</td>
<td>
4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
14 days
</td>
<td>
18
</td>
<td>
20
</td>
<td>
19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
28 days
</td>
<td>
32
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
33
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
30 days
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
36
</td>
<td>
35
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
60 days
</td>
<td>
64
</td>
<td>
66
</td>
<td>
65
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
90 days
</td>
<td>
94
</td>
<td>
96
</td>
<td>
95
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
120 days
</td>
<td>
124
</td>
<td>
126
</td>
<td>
125
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Given by hand
<table style="width: 340px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Minimum notice period
</td>
<td>
Given on any day
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
None
</td>
<td>
-
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
14 days
</td>
<td>
16
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
28 days
</td>
<td>
30
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
30 days
</td>
<td>
32
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
60 days
</td>
<td>
62
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
90 days
</td>
<td>
92
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
120 days
</td>
<td>
122
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Rooming houses
By regular registered post
<table style="width: 464px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Minimum notice period
</td>
<td>
Posted Sunday or Monday
</td>
<td>
Posted Tuesday to Friday
</td>
<td>
Posted Saturday
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
None
</td>
<td>
5
</td>
<td>
7
</td>
<td>
6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2 days
</td>
<td>
8
</td>
<td>
10
</td>
<td>
9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
28 days
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
36
</td>
<td>
35
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
30 days
</td>
<td>
36
</td>
<td>
38
</td>
<td>
37
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
60 days
</td>
<td>
66
</td>
<td>
68
</td>
<td>
67
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
90 days
</td>
<td>
96
</td>
<td>
98
</td>
<td>
97
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
120 days
</td>
<td>
126
</td>
<td>
128
</td>
<td>
127
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
By priority registered post
<table style="width: 559px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Minimum notice period
</td>
<td>
Posted Sunday or Monday
</td>
<td>
Posted Tuesday or Wednesday
</td>
<td>
Posted Thursday or Friday
</td>
<td>
Posted Saturday
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
None
</td>
<td>
5
</td>
<td>
7
</td>
<td>
7
</td>
<td>
6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2 days
</td>
<td>
6
</td>
<td>
6
</td>
<td>
8
</td>
<td>
7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
28 days
</td>
<td>
32
</td>
<td>
32
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
33
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
30 days
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
36
</td>
<td>
35
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
60 days
</td>
<td>
64
</td>
<td>
64
</td>
<td>
66
</td>
<td>
65
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
90 days
</td>
<td>
94
</td>
<td>
94
</td>
<td>
96
</td>
<td>
95
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
120 days
</td>
<td>
124
</td>
<td>
124
</td>
<td>
126
</td>
<td>
125
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Given by hand
<table style="width: 312px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Minimum notice period
</td>
<td>
Given on any day
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
None
</td>
<td>
-
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2 days
</td>
<td>
4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
28 days
</td>
<td>
30
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
30 days
</td>
<td>
32
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
60 days
</td>
<td>
62
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
90 days
</td>
<td>
92
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
120 days
</td>
<td>
122
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>Caravan parks</h3>
By regular registered post
<table style="width: 473px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Minimum notice period
</td>
<td>
Posted Sunday or Monday
</td>
<td>
Posted Tuesday to Friday
</td>
<td>
Posted Saturday
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
None
</td>
<td>
5
</td>
<td>
7
</td>
<td>
6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
7 days
</td>
<td>
13
</td>
<td>
15
</td>
<td>
14
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
14 days
</td>
<td>
20
</td>
<td>
22
</td>
<td>
21
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
28 days
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
36
</td>
<td>
35
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
30 days
</td>
<td>
36
</td>
<td>
38
</td>
<td>
37
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
60 days
</td>
<td>
66
</td>
<td>
68
</td>
<td>
67
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
90 days
</td>
<td>
96
</td>
<td>
98
</td>
<td>
97
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
120 days
</td>
<td>
126
</td>
<td>
128
</td>
<td>
127
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
6 months
</td>
<td>
6 months + 6
</td>
<td>
6 months + 8
</td>
<td>
6 months + 7
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Note: The six month period is calculated simply as six months + the required postal period and first available termination date.
By priority registered post
<table style="width: 587px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Minimum notice period
</td>
<td>
Posted Sunday or Monday
</td>
<td>
Posted Tuesday or Wednesday
</td>
<td>
Posted Thursday or Friday
</td>
<td>
Posted Saturday
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
None
</td>
<td>
3
</td>
<td>
3
</td>
<td>
5
</td>
<td>
4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
7 days
</td>
<td>
13
</td>
<td>
15
</td>
<td>
15
</td>
<td>
14
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
14 days
</td>
<td>
18
</td>
<td>
18
</td>
<td>
20
</td>
<td>
19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
28 days
</td>
<td>
32
</td>
<td>
32
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
33
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
30 days
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
34
</td>
<td>
36
</td>
<td>
35
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
60 days
</td>
<td>
64
</td>
<td>
64
</td>
<td>
66
</td>
<td>
65
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
90 days
</td>
<td>
94
</td>
<td>
94
</td>
<td>
96
</td>
<td>
95
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
120 days
</td>
<td>
124
</td>
<td>
124
</td>
<td>
126
</td>
<td>
125
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
6 months
</td>
<td>
6 months + 4
</td>
<td>
6 months + 4
</td>
<td>
6 months + 6
</td>
<td>
6 months + 5
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Given by hand
<table style="width: 321px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Minimum notice period
</td>
<td>
Given on any day
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
None
</td>
<td>
-
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
7 days
</td>
<td>
9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
14 days
</td>
<td>
16
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
28 days
</td>
<td>
30
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
30 days
</td>
<td>
32
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
60 days
</td>
<td>
62
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
90 days
</td>
<td>
92
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
120 days
</td>
<td>
122
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
6 months
</td>
<td>
6 months + 2
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
For more about delivery options and times, visit the <a href="https://auspost.com.au/changes-to-your-letters-service?ilink=us706-changes-to-your-letters-service-learn-more" target="_blank">Australia Post website</a>.
</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

Property 101: Landlords warned on changes to postal delivery times for rental notices

<html><body>
Drummoyne vendors notched up near 90 percent auctions success in the 2015 December quarter, according to a CoreLogic list of the busiest 195 auction suburbs.
Houses in the inner west suburb have a median of around $1.8 million and units around $900,000 in the suburb that is surrounded by water on three sides.
CoreLogic RP Data noted while Sydney’s auction clearance rate over the December quarter was 59 percent there were pockets of the Sydney market where clearance rate performance sits much stronger than the broader market.
For instance the eastern suburbs came in with the highest clearance rate at almost 75 percent, followed by the inner south and inner west at 67 percent.
But Blacktown and Parramatta were in the low 40s.
The research will be handy when deciding just how to list your Sydney home this year, ie by auction or private treaty.
It would be wise to ask your prospective listing agents not only how their agency went late last year but contrast their results against the overall suburban trend.
<img src="/images/2016/01/19/Screen%20Shot%202016-01-19%20at%2010.26.27%20AM.png" alt="">
<img src="/images/2016/01/19/Screen%20Shot%202016-01-19%20at%2010.26.56%20AM.png" alt="" width="534" height="1330">
<img src="/images/2016/01/19/Screen%20Shot%202016-01-19%20at%2010.29.59%20AM.png" alt="">
<img src="/images/2016/01/19/Screen%20Shot%202016-01-19%20at%2010.30.47%20AM.png" alt="">
<img src="/images/2016/01/19/Screen%20Shot%202016-01-19%20at%2010.31.48%20AM.png" alt="">
Source CoreLogic RP Data
</body></html>

Sydney's best and worst auction suburb guide

<html><body>
Mirvac Group has exchanged contracts for the sale of 1 Woolworths Way, Bella Vista for $336.45 million, representing a yield of 6.07 percent.
As part of the transaction, Mirvac Projects will remain responsible for the delivery (including cost) of a new multi-story carpark via a development management agreement.
The Woolworths headquarters at 1 Woolworths Way is located 30 kilometres north-west of the Sydney CBD within Norwest Business Park.
It is 100 per cent leased to Woolworths Limited until 2031 with Woolworths recently signing a new 15-year lease extension.
South Korean-based property investors, advised by Inmark Asset Management, bought the property which was marketed by Paul Noonan, Rob Sewell and Simon Storry of JLL and Graeme Russell, Ian Hetherington and Ben Azar of Savills.
It had a recent book value of $250 million before the new lease and before the envisaged car parking arrangement.
</body></html>

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