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>

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Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

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Charter Hall’s Core Plus Industrial Fund (CPIF) has bought an industrial land holding near the Port of Brisbane in an off-market deal for $6 million, adding to its existing holdings on Lytton Road at Hemmant.
The 1517 Lytton Road, Hemmant property is spread over 17,766 square metres and is a General Industry zoned site within the Trade Coast precinct.   
The site had historically been used as part of the overall Inghams chicken facility and most recently as a transport yard.
Selling agent Shaw Harrison of Savills leased out the vacant yards and split the site into smaller tenancies, occupied by hardstand and transport depot tenants. The total current income of $520,000 represents a yield of 8.66% which includes a rental guarantee for the vacant yard.
Harrison said the acquisition of 1517 Lytton Road “adds the final piece of the puzzle” following Charter Hall’s previous acquisitions of neighbouring properties, 1510 Lytton Road in 2014 and 80 Canberra Street in 2012. The latest brings its total holding to more than 12 hectares of future developable land backed by a weighted average lease expiry of around 14 years with some medium-term development upside.
“The acquisition is right on strategy in terms of investing in highly land constrained markets within very close proximity to key infrastructure in the Port of Brisbane and Gateway Motorway. It enables us to work closely with, and provide flexibility, in terms of expansion or reconfiguration requirements, for one of our key customers, Inghams,” Charter Hall’s head of industrial Paul Ford said.
CPIF focuses on sourcing properties in the industrial and logistics sectors of major Australian capital cities. The fund was launched in April 2007, raising $350 million in equity commitments, says its website.
Harrison said the fully fenced property with workshops and separate yards provide attractive holding income while the new owner assesses future options.
 “The Trade Coast provides convenient road access direct from the Port to both the north and south of Brisbane via the Gateway Bridge and Motorways and, as such, is a strategic logistics location and busy route for trucks and heavy vehicles. This site will be the next big thing in the Trade Coast precinct,” said Harrison.
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Charter Hall expands Brisbane Trade Coast holdings with $6 million industrial site purchase

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ASIC has remade two class orders that were due to expire in 2016. 
Class Order [CO 00/213] Real estate companies and Class Order [CO 05/1243] Licensing relief for valuations of real estate companies have been remade and consolidated into ASIC Corporations (Real Estate Companies) Instrument 2015/1049.
ASIC Corporations (Real Estate Companies) Instrument 2015/1049 provides relief for vendors, licensed real estate agents and valuers from the licensing and disclosure requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 with respect to real estate companies,
ASIC remade and consolidated the previous class orders without significant change before they sunset in 2016. 
The new instrument will continue the substantive effects of [CO 00/213] and [CO05/1243] with some minor amendments. These minor amendments include:
<ul>
<li>clarifying that the disclosure relief applies to general advice and dealing and the licensing relief applies to general advice only; and</li>
<li>combining the relief provided under [CO 00/213] and [CO 05/1243] into one instrument, giving relief from s707 and 911A(1) and covering vendors, real estate agents and valuers of real estate companies.</li>
</ul>
The repeal of the class orders follows ASIC consultation in August 2015 (refer: <a href="https://www.asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/find-a-document/consultation-papers/cp-237-remaking-asic-class-orders-on-real-estate-companies-co-00213-and-co-051243/" target="_blank">Consultation Paper 237</a> Remaking ASIC class orders on real estate companies: [CO 00/213] and [CO 05/1243]). Only one submission was received.  This submission supported ASIC’s proposals and no concerns were identified.
ASIC’s policy on real estate companies is set out in Regulatory Guide 67Real Estate Companies (<a href="https://www.asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/find-a-document/regulatory-guides/rg-67-real-estate-companies/" target="_blank">RG 67</a>), which has also been updated.
Background
Under the Legislative Instruments Act 2003, legislative instruments such as class orders sunset after 10 years unless action is taken to exempt or preserve them. This ensures that legislative instruments like class orders are kept up to date and only remain in force while they are fit for purpose and relevant.
A real estate company is a company formed for the purpose of owning and managing land and buildings. Shares in the real estate company are held by persons who wish to have an exclusive right of occupation and use of a particular area within the land or building owned by the real estate company.  A real estate company is less common than strata title and has historically been used where owners wish to exercise control over occupiers, or where conversion to strata title is not practicable.
The Corporations Act 2001 regulates interests in real estate companies because they involve ownership of shares in a company. Therefore, without relief, vendors of shares in real estate companies, real estate agents who regularly market or sell shares in real estate companies, or valuers who provide valuations of real estate companies would be subject to a regulatory burden that is unnecessary and disproportionate to the need for consumer protection. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

ASIC remake real estate companies class orders

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Adelaide's industrial sector has been under a period of consolidation in 2015 and continues to be impacted by a generally weak local economy and reduced activity within the manufacturing sector, claims valuation firm Herron Todd White. 
The HTW report cites that impending closure of General Motors Holden Plant in 2017 in particular is negatively impact upon the local manufacturing industry. 
"The State Government in December 2014 announced grants to assist automotive component manufacturers previously dependent on the car manufacturing industry to diversify into alternate industries such as defence.
"The grants have done little to slow the short term impact of the transition however as at July 2015, the South Australian unemployment rate increased to 8.2% (ABS), being .06% above the May result which represented a 15 year high and well above the national average of 6%.
"By September 2015 this had reduced slightly to 7.7% but South Australia remains the highest State or Territory in the country with Queensland the second highest at 6.3%," the report said.
Adding to the lack of confidence in the South Australian economy and the manufacturing sector in particular, has been the continued debate over the construction of Australian Defence Force submarines, the month in review noted.
"In early 2015 Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced that the circa $50 billion contract is to be decided via a competitive evaluation process with manufacturers from France, Germany and Japan in contention for the contract.
"Submarines have previously been constructed by the Australian Submarine Corporation (ASC) within its $120 million facility in Osborne.
"In September 2015 the Government confirmed that all three potential offshore manufacturers would include local construction in satisfying the contract."
The report said the detail remains unclear and the evaluation process for the tender is not expected to conclude until the end of 2015.
It also added that in light of the above economic climate, industrial sales activity has continued to be subdued with the most activity occurring within the $3 million to sub $5 million markets which are dominated by owner- occupiers and private investors.
"There are reports that institutional investors are continuing to show interest in Super Prime asset classes within South Australia due to the higher than national average returns on offer.
"However this is not yet translating into a shift in market sentiment in the lower sub markets."
In general investment activity has been weak with prime rents and values either reducing or holding, the HTW report states.
"Falling construction rate has meant a limit in the availability of prime asset classes and reduced rental returns makes the construction of new buildings less viable.
"The impact has therefore seen a continued divide between prime and secondary stock which may be facing obsolescence issues in the current market."
The report concludes by indicating that the supermarket company Aldi is going against the trend however and is due to open its' first stores in early 2016.
The Regency Park distribution centre is also nearing completion which began construction in late 2014 comprising nearly 33,000 square metres of office warehouse accommodation at a reported cost of $70 million. 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Adelaide industrial property continues to be impacted by a weak local economy: HTW

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<img src="/images/2015/11/24/Holdencapital_banner.jpg" alt="" width="408" height="86">
SPONSORED POST
Often property developers, particularly inexperienced or would be developers, will purchase a residential or rural property with view to redeveloping it into townhouses or apartment style developments or residential allotments.
With the current high demand for redevelopment sites, often the purchase price is inflated when compared to similar properties in the immediate surrounds which may not possess redevelopment potential. The developer can justify paying a higher price based on the project profit they can forecast to earn.
Despite the property being a residentially zoned, the trap that the inexperienced buyers fall into is in incorrectly believing that they can obtain residential property finance to purchase what is really a development site. 
Which raises the question of what are the requirements when seeking residential finance as opposed to site funding?
Residential property finance (Investment Loan or Home Loan), can be obtained if the site is purchased for a comparable price to neighboring residential properties, or the applicants have owned the property for a long time or the borrower can demonstrate an ability to service the proposed debt. 
The first hurdle our developer applicants face is a requirement to demonstrate their servicing capacity, however many developers do not have consistent cash flows and the rental income is rarely enough resulting in a servicing shortfall. 
The second stumbling black occurs when the property is valued for the lender and the question arises, is it a residential property or a development site for the purposes of the valuation?
The API regulates the valuation industry heavily and Professional Indemnity insurance is expensive. Claims by lenders can have a huge impact on the valuer’s business costs. So, when conducting a valuation on a residential property, the valuer typically searches for comparable sales in the area to support the purchase price. If the valuer cannot find comparable sales evidence they are unlikely to support pioneering values and will typically discount their valuation accordingly.
A development valuation involves the use of a feasibility analysis of the proposed project and considers the project and development viability in greater detail than a residential valuation based on comparable sales.
Do your own research on the market and provide the valuer with supporting sales evidence that you have collected, don’t rely on the valuer to do all the research or have access to the most recent sales.
When should I order a valuation: The best results occur when the valuer is engaged early, the main benefit of early engagement is that the process allows the developer to assess the valuation risk prior to the settlement occurring. If the valuation comes in short the whole project can fall over very quickly if more equity cannot be secured or settlement extensions cannot be granted. Speak to your broker about the most suitable valuer to engage.
 It is important to have all information ready and organized to send to the valuer upon engagement.
Recently a client contracted to purchase a residential property with development potential for $1.5m with a 12 month settlement period to allow the client sufficient time to achieve development approval with a neighboring development site. The client expected to finance 80% of the purchase price and obtain a loan for $1.2m.
A residential valuer was engaged and responded very quickly with a valuation of $1.2m, a $300,000 discount to the purchase price of $1.5m. The valuer correctly reasoned that the purchase price was outside of the normal range for this location. The valuer noted the redevelopment potential but without a detailed feasibility analysis or council development approval they could not accurately gauge the value of this development potential.
With HCAP involvement we managed to obtain loan for 100% of the valuation figure via a structured debt facility that layered the capital stack with 1st and 2nd mortgage funding by highlighting to the lender the redevelopment potential of the property that the valuer was unable to do. The client was able to settle the acquisition and now has time to obtain the relevant approvals before obtaining finance for stage 1 construction with a full development valuation.
If you are buying a development site, best to engage your valuer early and ensure that you speak to an experienced construction finance broker who can assist you to navigate through this process.
 
This article was written by Dan Holden of HoldenCAPITAL, who are a bespoke construction finance firm, they arrange construction finance and invest in projects through their equity fund, Queen Street INVEST. To discuss your project finance requirement please call (07) 3171 4200 or visit HoldenCAPITAL <a href="https://www.holdencapital.com.au/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Some home truths about borrowing against future development sites: HoldenCAPITAL

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Borrowers are being encouraged to take advantage of some of the lowest home loan rates in history by shopping around, following a survey by comparison website, <a href="https://www.finder.com.au/" target="_blank">finder.com.au</a>, which found about two in five mortgage holders.
It found 39% of borrowers have not switched providers in the past decade – an estimated 1.17 million households.
"By not switching home loans or asking for a discount with their current lender, these households are potentially wasting a combined $27.4 million per month, $328.2 million per year or a staggering $9.9 billion over 30 years," <a href="https://www.finder.com.au/" target="_blank">finder.com.au</a> consumer advocate, Bessie Hassan said.
She said she was surprised by the complacency of many borrowers.
The survey of 1,351 respondents also found that just 6% of Australians are currently considering switching providers, while just 21% have switched for a better deal within the last five years.
More than half of these borrowers (54%) are content with their lender, while almost one in four (24 percent) hadn’t switched because they couldn’t find the time for all the paperwork.
One in 10 found it too hard to compare products and 13% think it would cost too much.
Comparing generations, Gen Y (18-34 year-olds) were the most savvy, more likely to have switched home loans than any other age group, while Baby Boomers (aged 55-74) were the most loyal to their lender.
Refinanced loans represent 34% of all home loans financed, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Housing Finance data analysed by <a href="https://www.finder.com.au/" target="_blank">finder.com.au</a>.
"That figure has fluctuated between 31 and 34% since the credit reforms were introduced in July 2012, which made it easier for variable rate borrowers to switch providers," Bessie Hassan said.
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Lazy $9.9bn cost as baby boomer borrowers most loyal to the lender: finder.com.au

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The prospect of Squiiz becoming a successful property sales portal has been dismissed by estate agent John McGrath at an REB Leadership Series event for network bosses.
“The electronic classified game is over. REA has won and Domain is a strong second competitor,” he said.
“REA is making hundreds of millions of dollars, and they’re reinvesting it in technology, people, branding and marketing," said John McGrath, who is a non-executive director of REA Group.
The evidence from around the world suggested industry-owned portals such as Squiiz were unable to compete with specialist businesses.
"I don’t think Squiiz was ever going to work,” he said.
Century 21 chairman Charles Tarbey told the event it was too early to dismiss Squiiz, which was fighting for recognition in the same way that the two big portals did in their early days.
“We’ve got to remember that we’re the ones who control the data and we’re the ones who feed that data to REA and Domain,” he said.
“It’s a very hard battle, but Squiiz was never designed to compete with REA or Domain.
"It was designed as a platform for us to consolidate our data as an industry.”
Squiiz, which has just released an app, is confident it can capture 100 per cent of national listings by the end of 2016, its chief executive Nick Christian said.
The site was launched last November with the <a href="https://squiiz.com.au/" target="_blank">Squiiz</a> site having almost 200,000 listings on day one.
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Squiiz future queried by John McGrath

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GUEST OBSERVER
RBA Governor Glenn Stevens spoke at an Australian Business Economists dinner and offered a long term look of the big forces, many of them negative, impacting the economic outlook.
When asked about the short term policy outlook, and particularly the February RBA board meeting, Stevens said we should just "chill out" over Christmas and "come back and see what the data say".
Stevens' speech was less positive than the "glass half full" varieties that had been given as recently as 13 October by Deputy Governor Philip Lowe. But his comments were in line with the recent Statement on Monetary Policy in which the RBA's growth and inflation forecasts were lowered.
Crucial to the RBA over the holiday period will be the outcome of the US central bank policy meeting on 16-17 December, the next two Australian labour force reports and the December quarter CPI due on 27 January.
Subject to surprises from those events (especially a continuation of strong employment growth) we maintain our view that in 2016, the Australian economy will be less assisted by 2015's tailwinds. The stimulus from housing and the lower AUD will fade. We also think consumption growth is unlikely to be as strong as the RBA currently forecasts. 
We think the inflation outlook provides no impediment to lower rates. And so, we expect the RBA will implement more cuts. As Stevens said tonight, if growth can be dialled-up to wind-in the economy's spare capacity and "make things better", further rate cuts are appropriate. We maintain our view that cash rate will be cut twice by 25bps, most likely in February and May.
Governor Stevens' speech followed an address by Deputy Secretary of the Treasury, Nigel Ray today at the same conference who said that updated population and labour force trends would cause Treasury to downgrade the economy's potential growth. "We now think potential GDP will grow by around 2¾% over the next few years, lower than the 3% estimated at Budget."
This theme was also touched upon by Stevens who reiterated the known weight of the demographic change, but also noted costs such "as the problems of providing retirement incomes" because low yields on fixed income assets mean that it is expensive to purchase a secure stream of future income. He said "this may mean that Australian listed corporates feel the pressure from shareholders to deliver that, even some whose earnings are inherently volatile". 
Stevens also pointed to demographic changes in China, which "are not favourable" as China's total working-age population will shrink over the years ahead. He contrasted this with India where the working age population will exceed China's within a decade.
Other influences on growth highlighted by Stevens were;
The closing chapters of the terms of trade event.
Households no longer being able to lead growth by increasing leverage.
The global legacy effects of debt, after a period of over-confidence and under-appreciation of risk.
A disinflationary or deflationary environment for goods and commodities, and even some services, accompanied by unusually low rates of wages growth.
Extremely low returns on safe financial assets.
High and rising valuations on existing fixed assets.
 
Cherelle Murphy is co-head of Australian Economics, ANZ and can be contacted <a href="https://bluenotes.anz.com/authors/our-economists/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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RBA's Stevens and Treasury's Ray Sombre update on "Big Forces": Cherelle Murphy

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When it comes to the question of who pays the mortgage interest, the answer is that New South Wales and Victoria do: well over half of the national interest payable in fact.
<a href="/images/2015/11/25/Interest%20Payable.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2015/11/25/Interest%20Payable.jpg" alt="">
<div>While this might seem surprising, in fact the share of interest paid by the largest two states has declined over the past two decades.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The reason for this has been the expansion of both the population and mortgage sizes in Queensland (its share of the mortgage interest pie increasing from 15%to 19%) and Western Australia (its share increasing from 9 to 13%).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The changes elsewhere have been negligible when viewed from the national level.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Despite the Australian population having increased by well over 1 million persons (or about 4.7%) over the past three years, total interest payable has declined by nearly 22% thanks to the slashing of interest rates.</div>
<div> </div>
<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>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Who pays the interest? Pete Wargent

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As this year’s calendar clicks towards December, the jacaranda season draws to a close with purple trademark trees turning green across Australia’s east coast.
The onset of flowering Jacarandas signifies the peak of the spring property market, and their disappearance indicates Christmas is nigh. 
In Grafton the town is known for its annual Jacaranda Festival and the vibrant coloured flower generally peaks the property market in the NSW north coast town. 
At just under $300,000, the property at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/131-villiers-street-grafton/Property-Details-sold-residential-8953404" target="_blank">131 Villiers Street</a> shows what the market offers at $300,000. Property Observer looked for recent sales at less that $300,000 on realestateview.com.au.
A short walk from the popular Australian girl trio the McClymont's childhood home, the three bedroom, one bathroom property sold for $299,000 in September. 
Another sold just yesterday for $290,000. The property at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/43-alice-street-grafton/Property-Details-sold-residential-9121630" target="_blank">43 Alice Street</a> is located within walk distance to the CBD. 
The contemporary three bedroom, three bathroom home features an extra garage room for an office, an open fire place and a large private backyard. 
Another three bedroom property at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/24-breimba-street-grafton/Property-Details-sold-residential-9524830" target="_blank">24 Briemba Street</a> has recently sold.
The Dovedale home sold for $295,000 last week after being rented for $350 per week prior to the sale. 
It was marketed as an investors dream as it comes with a 6.1% yield.
Just a short walk to Grafton's Jacaranda park, <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/156-arthur-street-grafton/Property-Details-sold-residential-9531628" target="_blank">156 Arthur Street</a> has it all on it's doorstep.
The two bedroom, one bathroom home is just a short walk to the hospital, the popular Prince street and numerous day care facilities and schools
The property sold for $240,000 in October.
One of the biggest properties sold at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/15-jackschon-avenue-grafton/Property-Details-sold-residential-9468834" target="_blank">15 Jackschon Avenue</a> in October.
The 728 sqm estate features six bedrooms, one bathroom and ample car parking space.
This property also returns a high yield. The $360 per week rent prior to the $250,000 purchase shows a 7.49 per cent yield.
The renovated <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/68-milton-street-grafton/Property-Details-sold-residential-9440546" target="_blank">68 Milton Street</a> sold for $225,000 in October. 
The three bedroom Westlawn home was bought in February for $142,000 and has seen over $43,000 of extensions including a car port and a verandah.
 
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Grafton homes sold at $300,000 or less this spring on realestateview.com.au

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The longtime childhood home of the popular country music trio, the McClymont sisters at Grafton, in northern NSW has been sold.
It's been a while since the three bedroom home hosted them all, so hairdresser mother Toni offloaded the property this month.
Peter and Toni McClymont's paid $45,000 in 1985 for the home which had been in the family with their grandmother since the 1970's. 
It fetched $300,000 when sold to a local first home buying couple through <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-grafton-120174573" target="_blank">Ben Hottes of Ray White Grafton</a>.
He never got to meet the girls saying it had been a long while since they'd been around.
The mayor of Clarence Valley Ritchie Williams maintained it was always a privilege to have the girls back in Grafton.
"We at home are very proud of them and everything they have achieved," he said when they launched their album as special guests at a 2012 mayoral reception.
"I know there are only bigger and better things to come for the girls and we always enjoy the atmosphere they bring with them when they come home," he added.
The country music band have have released four albums and won 10 Golden Guitars and two ARIA Awards, a long way from performing at the Gympie Muster music festival in 1997.
Universal Records signed all three of the sisters in 2006.
Recently the girl's mother Toni said to the girls "you’re probably not going to come back and live in Grafton" acknowledging they're making homes for themselves now.
Brooke McClymont and her musician husband Adam Eckersley have lived in the Central Coast since 2009. They bought their three bedroom property for $227,000 and have since spent $130,000 on extensions to their home which is a short walk from Lake Macquarie shores. 
Mollie McClymont and her husband, Aaron Blackburn bought a three-bedroom house in Wollongong in 2014 for $400,000 with a large rear deck with views of Primbee Bay.
Host of Farmer takes a Wife, Samantha McClymont, who is married to pilot Ben Poxon is yet to show up with any property acquisition although is Lilyfield based. 
The McClymont family home, which had been vacanted by the time of the recent marketing, fetched slightly higher than typical town offering. CoreLogic RP Data put the current median house price at $270,000.
And it was among the few without the popular jacaranda purple tree around Grafton which is a hub of infrastructure activity with the construction of a new bridge, new jail and new highway. 
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
 
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