A who's who of Australian surfing, business and entertainment has emerged on title records following the completion of Esprit Rainbow Bay, the latest boutique beachfront apartment development by former professional surfer Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects.

The completed project has attracted an enviable collection of owners, many with long-standing ties to the southern Gold Coast and the surf culture that has helped define Rainbow Bay and neighbouring Kirra for generations.

Given Gedoun's own background in surfing, it perhaps comes as little surprise that some of Australia's most recognisable surfers have chosen to buy into the development overlooking one of the country's most celebrated stretches of coastline.

Pezet Matheson directors Jayde Pezet and Todd Matheson launched the project in late 2021, and have managed the sales campaign all the way through to its sell-out and recent completion.

<img alt="Esprit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08fc6261-b84e-4b09-8a44-66d3067fd0d1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-29%20at%208.51.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4AOcb6ETZwNUnMPdTtz1B3pZAIB_jgZ2" />

Former world champion Mick Fanning, who grew up in Coolangatta, secured an apartment in 2023. He paid&nbsp;$2.07 million. Last year he sold his Bilinga home for over $16 million.

Three-time world champion Joel Parkinson also purchased in the development, alongside big wave surfer Mark Mathews. Mathews bought the most expensive apartment in the building, spending just over $4 million.

Joining them is Rip Curl founder Doug Warbrick, whose company helped shape Australia's global surfing industry over the past five decades.

The appeal of Rainbow Bay has extended well beyond the surfing community.

International DJ Paul Fisher purchased an apartment through his investment vehicle, YLB Developments, an abbreviation of his trademark phrase "You Little Beauty".

The purchase comes as Fisher and his wife Chloe are developing their own luxury apartment project further north in Palm Beach. Their boutique beachfront development, Pescado, comprises just seven apartments on Jefferson Lane, which start from just shy of $6 million. The couple intend to retain the two-level penthouse as their Australian base between international touring commitments.

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy and his wife Wendy have also invested in Esprit, purchasing two apartments after spending decades holidaying on the southern Gold Coast. They also have a luxury apartment in Joe Adsett's Rockpool, less than 400m away from Esprit.

<h2>Boutique project draws owner-occupiers</h2>

Esprit launched in 2021 and sold strongly, with buyers drawn to its boutique scale, beachfront position and contemporary design.

The completed development comprises 94 apartments across 11 levels, offering expansive floorplans designed primarily for owner-occupiers rather than the investor market.

Crowning the building is Club Esprit, pitched as being the Gold Coast's first residential rooftop wellness centre. The roof features a&nbsp;25 metre magnesium lap pool, which is surrounded by wet daybeds and poolside cabanas,&nbsp;multiple barbecue areas,&nbsp;a yoga and relaxation play lawn, and a private dining room with a kitchen scullery, bar, lounges, and an outdoor terrace.

The wellness centre is&nbsp;fully equipped with a Technogym, ice bath, infra-red sauna, steam room, thermal room, and treatment room. The roof has views spanning&nbsp;Rainbow Bay, Snapper Rocks and the Pacific Ocean.

<h2>S&amp;S Projects continues to shape Rainbow Bay</h2>

S&amp;S Projects founder Paul Gedoun has become one of the key figures behind Rainbow Bay's evolution over the past several years.

After establishing S&amp;S Projects, Gedoun has focused on delivering lifestyle-driven apartment developments designed primarily for owner-occupiers seeking a permanent coastal home.

Esprit is Gedoun's third completed project in Rainbow Bay, following Flow and Awaken, both of which achieved record prices for the suburb.

He is now delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, a 38-apartment development on Boundary Street that is currently selling, and has no plans to leave the precinct anytime soon. S&amp;S Projects has also lodged plans for its fifth Rainbow Bay development, an 88-apartment project on Boundary Street featuring a strong wellness focus.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">First look: S&amp;S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street</a>

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Joel Robinson

Who's who of buyers revealed as Esprit Rainbow Bay settles

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;

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" />

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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

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>

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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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The Mornington Peninsula property, Fargeet at Flinders, has been listed for December expressions of interest sale.
<a href="https://www.abercrombys.com.au/flinders-485-meakins-road-ab2767/">Abercromby’s agents Tim Bennetts and Jock Langley</a> has $9 million plus hopes for the property with gun-barrel views of Bass Strait.
The contemporary 2003-built home sits on a rise overlooking the ocean.
b.e Architects designed the house which builder Gary Hutchins sold the 37 hectare property in 2008 for $6.53 million to the Bittar family.
Offers close on December 14.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Mornington Peninsula's Fargeet listed for sale

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There have been fewer cases of underquoting and more cases of overquoting as the Sydney auction market softened during the bumper spring and into summer.
Underquoting had been rife for a while as many disappointed buyers missed out of their desired purchase during what was been an especially fast rising market. It has been subject to fresh legislation enforced from 2016 onwards.
But overquoting by agents to potential sellers is something of a sleeper issue as it typically relates to the private discussions between the vendor and their agent.
Overquoting is typically referred to as an agent securing the auction listing by misinforming the vendor that their property will sell for a lot more than what the market is likely dictating at the time.
Vendors who choose an estate agent solely on their suggesting the highest likely selling price of the property, will run the risk of ending up with a home that went unsold this spring. Or at least very grumpy as the agent seeks to lower the auction day price expectations to match the emerging weaker market conditions.
Any inflated auction price indications given by the listing agents saw the property passed in with the property possibly left sitting on the market until its agency listing expires possibly in the new year.
Expertise of estate agents, albeit trickier in a turning market, is to sense the probable and best selling prices of any prospective listing. 
They do themselves, their vendor and the market a disservice if they over inflate the likely sale price estimate to simply secure the listing.
Agents ought be familiar enough with the suburb and property type to get the buying market interested, not shaking their head in disbelief.
Ofcourse auctions are designed to get the vendor the best price on the day and that depends on a few things - demand on the day, the depth of bidder interest, how much they are prepared to spend, comparable homes that have sold or are for sale and, finally, what the vendor wants.
Most prospective vendors call in two or three local agents to get their own property appraisal ahead of the auction marketing. Yes a vendor wants to achieve the highest possible price for their property and too many vendors will base their decision on which agent to select based on the price forecast alone.
But in order to win the listing and win their vendor’s confidence agents ought be able to substantiate their property forecast.
The agents ought provide the most updated of sales in the neighbourhood, reports known as comparative market analysis (CMA). These reports can analyse and compare properties with the predictive price functionality. 
With just two weekends to Christmas, the Sydney auction housing market is tentatively poised and vendors won't want an unsold property over the long summer break.
There can be nothing worse as the weeks pass, unable to sell your property, of you getting tired of having the house on the market.... let alone the florist bill.
As the home sits on the market for so long, possibly without price change, it can start to appear cheaper in the eyes of ever vigilant, but keen buyers.
Of course price assumptions are not just not mathematical or scientific desktop calculations — the best agents work on the emotion of human buying behaviour. And that's when ambitious hopes can be sometimes realised despite contrary market conditions and comparisons.
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Overquoting to potential sellers the sleeper issue

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For the fifth consecutive week, CoreLogic RP Data is expecting over 3,000 auctions to be held across the combined capital cities, with 3,028 scheduled this week, down from 3,252 last week and the year’s record number of auctions the previous week (3,729).
There will be less capital city auctions this week, relative to last year, when there were 3,511 over the corresponding week.
Despite auction volumes falling on a broad capital city level, the same cannot be said for Adelaide, the only capital city where auction volumes are set to rise, with 151 Adelaide auctions scheduled this week, compared to 138 last week.
Melbourne auction volumes, down from 1,622 last week to 1,601 this week, have remained relatively steady, while across Sydney, auction activity will be significantly lower this week (902), compared to last week (1,070).
Capital City Auctions this week:
<ul>
<li>
Sydney: 902
</li>
<li>
Melbourne: 1,601
</li>
<li>
Brisbane: 179
</li>
<li>
Adelaide: 151
</li>
<li>
Perth: 61
</li>
<li>
Canberra: 116
</li>
</ul>
Summary of last week’s results:
<a href="/images/2015/12/9/20151210-clearance-rate-table.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/12/9/20151210-clearance-rate-table.jpg" alt="" width="773" height="440">
<a href="/images/2015/12/9/20151210-clearance-rate-graph.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/12/9/20151210-clearance-rate-graph.jpg" alt="" width="789" height="335">
Last week, the combined capital city final auction clearance rate was recorded at 57.3%, the lowest reading since February 2013. Much of the overall weakness was driven by Sydney, where only 52.9% of the reported auctions were sold last week, dropping from 56.2% the previous week.
Melbourne’s final auction clearance rate was 63.3%, over 10 percentage points higher than Sydney’s, but still lower than the cities result over the week prior (65.9%).
Adelaide was the only other capital city where the final auction clearance rate didn’t fall below 60%. There were 130 Adelaide auctions reported from a total of 138 that were held.
<a href="/images/2015/12/9/20151210-sub-regions.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/12/9/20151210-sub-regions.jpg" alt="">
 
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smiller-vwPjRHTkST

Adelaide the standout mover in capital city auction volume: CoreLogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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Real Estate Investar Group (REI Group), a provider of online services to Australian and New Zealand property investors, has made its ASX debut opening this morning at 21 cents, then trading at 19 cents.
The listing follows the raising of $5 million through a fully underwritten initial public offering (IPO) of 25 million shares at $0.20 per share. 
With 12 percent Fairfax Media is the largest shareholder in the company, with one of REI's non-executive director being Antony Catalano, CEO of Domain Group.
The REI Group provides online products and services to property investors to assist in the identification, analysis, acquisition, tracking and accounting of residential investment property.
Customers pay through paid subscription.
REI Group owns and operates the websites <a href="https://www.realestateinvestar.com.au/" target="_blank">www.realestateinvestar.com.au</a> and <a href="https://www.realestateinvestar.co.nz/" target="_blank">www.realestateinvestar.co.nz</a>. 
The company board includes chairman Simon Baker (former CEO and managing director of REA Group and chairman of the Mitula Group).
Baker said he believes the ASX listing will provide the foundation for the next phase of our expansion.
The listing follows the real estate listing services company, the McGrath Estate Agency which <a href="/news/real-estate-services-company-mcgrath-float-hits-asx-bourse-at-1-94-and-rising">floated on the ASX at $1.94 on Monday</a> is currently at $1.85. 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Simon Baker's Real Estate Investar Group debuts on ASX with Fairfax backing

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New South Wales homeowners will have to pay around $160 a year in an emergency services property levy which will be introduced by the Baird government in a tax reform that claims it will actually save people money.
Mike Baird, the New South Wales premier said that he estimated the move could see people save about $250 a year on their current insurance premiums, if they are insured.
Foreshadowed on the front page of the Daily Telegraph under the headline 'Triple-0 Tax', New South Wales treasurer Gladys Berejiklian ­made the announcement today ahead of a tax ­reform meeting of state treasurers, with the Baird government to label it its biggest tax reform in government.
Berejiklian said the new way of collecting the levy would bring NSW in line with other states and hopefully boost the number of people who take out home and contents insurance.
"This fairer model for funding fire and emergency services will reduce the cost of insurance and encourage more people to insure their properties," she said.
The emergency services property levy will replace the emergency services levy which now goes on household insurance bills.
It will fund firefighters and state emergency services workers around the state.
The new tax from its 2017 introduction will remove a similar charge from insurance bills that currently funds firefighters and state emergency services workers.
At present $800 million of the $1 billion a year cost of funding fire and rescue NSW, the rural fire service and the state emergency service is paid for by a tax on insurance companies, passed on to customers via higher premiums for home and contents insurance.
The government will argue that replacing this with the new system will mean the ­majority of householders are better off and that the system will be much fairer.
The government’s argument is that those who are ­insured are paying for services provided for landholders who are not insured and the introduction of the levy will create a fairer system.
They say NSW is the most non-insured state in the country and hope the change will encourage more people to have their property insured, as premiums will come down.
Under the current system, of an average $1000 a year paid in insurance, $200 is paid for the insurance levy.
For a person with that average land value, from July 2017, they will have a $160 a year charge on their council rates instead.
A new insurance pricing watchdog under former ACCC head Allan Fels will be set up to police the companies, who can face fines of up to $10 million for "unreasonable prices" should they not pass on the savings.
All other states have introduced similar levies and it has been estimated 810,000, or 36%, of NSW properties do not have home and contents insurance.
In Victoria, where a similar levy was introduced in 2013, a report by professor Fels found residents paid 18%less for ­insurance than before the reforms.
The ­reform was recommended by the Henry tax ­review and also by the royal commission into the 2009 Victorian bushfires with the goal of reducing the level of underinsurance.
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Emergency services property tax levy for all NSW property owners

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GUEST OBSERVER
The Australian Chamber-Westpac Survey of Industrial Trends, the longest running business survey in Australia, dating from 1966, provides a timely update on the manufacturing sector and insights into economy-wide trends.
The Westpac-AusChamber Actual Composite index moderated in the December quarter to 53.5, down 3.2pts, from 56.7 in September. This is a still solid reading, above the historic average of 49 and up from an average of 52.4 for 2014.
The trend strengthening of the Composite index in 2015 has been centred on new orders, output and overtime, with some moderation in new orders and output in the final months of the year.
Manufacturing is benefitting from a strong upswing in new home building activity, as well as the lift in renovation activity and from the significant improvement in competitiveness flowing from the sharply lower currency, down 25% against the US dollar from mid-2014. However, the cycle remains constrained. Consumer spending is below trend, mining investment is turning down sharply and global fragilities persist. 
Exports are rising modestly, supported by the lower currency but constrained by still sluggish world growth. A net 3% of firms reported a lift in exports.
Expectations are positive, centred on new orders and output. Firms expect to respond to this strength by increasing overtime. The Expected Composite index is at 60.8, up 1.0pt on September. A net 38% expect the general business environment to strengthen over the next six months, up from 19% in September.
Businesses are looking to 2016 to be a positive year for profitability, driven by increased turnover and a lower Australian dollar boosting export returns. A net 19% expect profits to increase.
There are tentative signs that investment by the sector is nearing a turning point, consistent with a trend reduction in the sector's spare capacity. A solid net 15% of firms expect to increase equipment spending in the next year. The improvement has, to date, been centred on fewer firms looking to reduce spending.
On jobs, the survey's Labour Market composite was at a solid 52.2 in December, albeit down from a five year of 55.9 in September. The Index correctly foreshadowed the strengthening in economy wide jobs growth evident over the past year. It points to further solid gains into 2016.
<a href="/images/2015/12/9/Screen%20Shot%202015-12-10%20at%2011.13.24%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/12/9/Screen%20Shot%202015-12-10%20at%2011.13.24%20AM.png" alt="">
Andrew Hanlan is senior economist for Westpac and can be contacted <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://au.linkedin.com/pub/andrew-hanlan/3/222/430" target="_blank">here</a>. 
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mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

Conditions moderate, but still positive: Westpac's Andrew Hanlan

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GUEST OBSERVER
We’re launching into yet another silly season, and there will no doubt be the annual holiday splurge – in fact, one estimate puts our nation’s Christmas spending to be around $8.9 billion.
And that’s on gifts alone! There is, however, a ray of hope for your back pocket: with variable interest rates on the move this month, you have even more opportunity to shop around for a better rate. On the off-chance that these rate rises continue, an offset can provide even more control over your loan by letting you slice interest off repayments based on your hard-earned savings.
Here are the lowest home loan rates on finder.com.au that also allow a 100% offset account.
finder.com.au’s lowest variable home loan rates with a 100% offset account
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/mortgage-house-summer-home-loan-review" target="_blank">Mortgage House Summer Home Loan</a>: 3.94%
With no application or ongoing fees, plus redraw facilities on top of your offset account, this home loan can provide some key cushioning for potential homeowners. Just be aware that you’re also signing up for a $395 legal, $200 Settlement and $450 discharge fee.
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/boq-clear-path-rate-variable-home-loan#14747" target="_blank">Bank of Queensland Clear Path</a>: 3.99%
The Clear Path home loan will allow you to borrow up to 95% of the property’s value, while also waiving application fees and allowing for free redraws and repayments, which could pad out your mortgage nicely. You will have to crank the budgeting up a notch however, as you’ll then be factoring in a $10 monthly fee and a once-off settlement fee of $150. It’s advised you take some time to sit down and calculate the lifetime costs and benefits of your mortgage, especially in the case of revolving expenses. 
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/bankwest-complete-home-loan-package-variable#10460" target="_blank">Bankwest Complete Home Loan Package</a>: 4.08%
Let it be said from the get-go that this is a package deal, which usually entails an additional expense of some sort – in this case it’s a considerable $395 annual fee. This might be offset in the first year by no application or legal fees, and its split options, redraw and extra repayment facilities could be enough to pull this loan over the line for you. When it comes to considerable annual fees, it’s a good idea to make sure there’s enough funds sitting in your offset account to negate the rolling expense by the time it hits every year.
finder.com.au’s lowest variable home loan rates with a 100% offset account
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/beyond-bank-total-home-loan-package#12549" target="_blank">Beyond Bank Total Home Loan Package</a>: 4.09%
Perhaps just as powerful as a 100% offset account is the ability to also make free repayments, and this loan allows the best of both worlds. You can also borrow up to 95% of the property value, along with the ability to redraw funds should your financial standing get shaky. Again, this is a packaged home loan, and you will be slugged with a $395 annual fee, which will be exacerbated in the first year by a $150 settlement fee.
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/mortgage-house-100-offset-fixed-rate-home-loan-review#13193" target="_blank">Mortgage House 100% Offset</a>: 4.39%
Nothing says freedom like no monthly or annual service fees – which is something recipients of this loan will experience. There is also no application fee tied to this loan, and you will be able to make additional repayments and be able to redraw. Just make sure you have some funds available at all times, as the $200 settlement fee will hit you in the earlier stage of the loan, while the $450 discharge fee will come around at the tail-end of the loan.
<a href="https://www.finder.com.au/st-george-fixed-rate-home-loan#1035" target="_blank">St. George Fixed Rate</a>: 4.44%
This loan comes with a waived legal and valuation fee, along with the ability to split your loan and make extra repayments and redraws. That being said, there are some serious fees that come with this product, including a $600 application, $10 monthly service, $100 settlement and $350 discharge fee. This loan could be your best option – but without doing your homework first, these fees could drown your budget and leave your head underwater for the next 30 years. Tread the water carefully!
Bessie Hassan is consumer advocate at <a href="https://www.finder.com.au" target="_blank">finder.com.au</a>.
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3.94% Mortgage House Summer special tops Finder's December home loans roundup

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<div>At the headline level it was another spirited month for housing finance nationally, with the seasonally adjusted $32.6 billion in October being the sixth greatest month on record following a lending blitz through 2015.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Although owner-occupier commitments increased again in the month, investor finance continued to slump, dropping by 6.1%.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/12/9/HF1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/12/9/HF1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>The devil of this data series forever lies within the detail, with a number of sources indicating that there has been a level of jiggery-pokery with regards to the classification of loans between owner-occupiers and investors (since there is now a clear price incentive to opt for homebuyer loans).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The second chart below shows that owner-occupier commitments and refinancing have both increased solidly, while APRA's macroprudential measures have ensured that investor finance is now falling away quickly.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The net result was that total housing finance in trend terms remained flat in the month at $33.2 billion.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/12/9/HF2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/12/9/HF2.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>Whether or not housing markets can push forward in 2016 will depend upon the extent to which the growth in owner-occupier loans can offset declining investor lending. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Certainly we can see that the number of owner-occupier loans is trending up, but equally there is a chance that tightening mortgage rates could slow this sector of the market going forward.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/12/9/HF3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/12/9/HF3.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>
State versus state <div>Skipping down to the state level we can see that the trend number of owner-occupier commitments is in decline in Western Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory, and Queensland, which is home to a significant number of declining regional markets in line with the resources investment collapse.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The trend in the number of owner-occupier commitments in the Australian Capital Territory has been stone dead flat for months.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The increase in the number of mortgages written has been driven purely by the two most populous states, New South Wales and Victoria. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/12/9/HF4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/12/9/HF4.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>Generally speaking the higher value loans are written in the capital cities, and as such the dollar value of owner-occupier commitments tends to be a better indicator of what is playing out in the capitals. In terms of the trend value of owner-occupier commitments, both Western Australia and the Northern Territory are again in decline. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The Brisbane market is faring relatively well at the present time, helping to nudge the aggregate value of owner-occupier commitments in Queensland steadily up, while Victoria and New South Wales in particular are rising fast.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In fact, trend monthly owner-occupier commitments in New South Wales have ripped up the chart to sit some 43 per cent higher over the year at more than $8 billion (awooga!).</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/12/9/HF5.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/12/9/HF5.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>As noted, when it comes to housing finance the devil is always in the detail: more than $3 billion of the New South Wales monthly figure related to refinancing, and over the past year there has also been a slight uptick in finance for renovations.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/12/9/HF6.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/12/9/HF6.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>
The wrap 
</div>
<div>Overall, there are many more different trends to cover than can be analysed in one blog post - it was a solid result nationally, and it all rather depends upon which market you are interested in.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>One thing that we can say with certainty is that the investor boom is a cooked goose for this cycle, with investor finance now down by 9.2 per cent year-on-year. In 2016, the homebuyer sector of the market will swim back into focus.</div>
 
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. 
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Investor boom is a cooked goose: Pete Wargent

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The Byron Bay ridgeline estate, Villa Benventano has been listed with $5 million plus hopes.
Last traded in 2004 for $4.18 million, the five bedroom Tuscan style home commands an enviable position with views over Lennox Head and the Byron Bay hinterland.
The 22.44 hectare property features a three bedroom guest wing, a newly built library, a double sided stone fireplace and a 4000 bottle wine cellar.
The eastern courtyard includes a hand built stone pizza oven and the western courtyard a new swimming pool. 
Both are met by landscaped gardens with vegetable gardens, various fruit trees and 5300 macadamia trees for primary producer status.
There is also a large fully equipped shed and recently upgraded de-husking facilities which ensure the farm operations are professional and easy to manage. 
The current owners spent over $120,000 extending Villa Benventano in 2008 which included the addition of the infinity edge pool.
The property is a 20 minute drive from Byron Bay and has been on the market for 888 days.
Noel Outerbridge of Century 21 has the listing of <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/277-friday-hut-road-brooklet/Property-Details-buy-residential-9354040" target="_blank">277 Friday Hut Road</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Byron Bay's Villa Benventano listed with $5m plus hopes

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New growth stars will emerge in 2016. You’re most likely to find them in Brisbane, Melbourne, regional New South Wales and regional Queensland, although others such as Adelaide and Hobart may put their hands up.
Here are five areas I think are worth watching as we get into the New Year. These are all places that should produce price growth in 2016, on the back of serious momentum with rising sales activity in their markets.
1 Oxenford and the northern growth corridor, QLD: 
The Gold Coast is now the clear national leader among the Local Government Areas of Australia. It has the most growth suburbs, by a wide margin. 
These rising suburbs are found right across Gold Coast city, but the growth corridor stretching north from the Gold Coast towards Brisbane is the standout area, with growth suburbs either side of the Pacific Motorway.
Oxenford stands out, with sales rates lifting from 80-90 per quarter last year to 130-135 in the past two quarters. Other growth suburbs in this precinct include Coomera, Upper Coomera, Pimpama and Ormeau. 
2 Lalor and Whittlesea, VIC:
The focus of Melbourne’s up-cycle has switched increasingly from the middle market to the outer suburbs, where affordability and good infrastructure are key drivers.
The Whittlesea LGA in the northern suburbs is leading the way, headed by the suburb of Lalor (median house price $400,000), where sales rates have increased from around 70 per quarter last year to above 100 more recently. 
Other growth suburbs in this precinct include Epping, Mill Park, Doreen, Mernda and Thomastown. 
3 Beenleigh and Logan City, QLD:
Logan City, which borders the Gold Coast to the south and Brisbane City to the north, has led the revival of Greater Brisbane markets in 2015. 
It has more growth suburbs than any other precinct in the Brisbane metropolitan area, headed by Beenleigh, the administration centre for the LGA, where house sales have increased steadily over the past 12 months or so.
Another standout suburb in Logan City is affordable Eagleby, where sales in the past four quarters have increased from 59 to 65 to 95 to 102.
4 Forster-Tuncurry, NSW:
The Great Lakes LGA in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales is a standout performer is this latest survey for The Price Predictor Index.
Residential sales in Forster, about 300km north of Sydney, have risen from 106 to 114 to 139 to 152 to 155 in consecutive quarters, while neighbour Tuncurry has recorded a similar pattern.
5 Point Cook and Wyndham City, VIC:
Another example of the emergence of the affordable outer ring suburbs of the Melbourne metropolitan area is Wyndham City in the south-west heading towards Geelong.
A number of suburbs have strong growth trajectories, headed by the developing suburb of Point Cook, where quarterly sales in the past 18 months have been 289, 313, 350, 396, 395 and 420.
Wyndham Vale is another standout market in this precinct, with quarterly sales levels lifting from 85-90 about 18 months ago to around 140 in the September 2015 Quarter.
 
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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