<p>Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.</p>

<p>For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.</p>

<p>Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.</p>

<p>"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]</p>

<p>Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.</p>

<p>The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.</p>

<p>Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]</p>

<p>Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.</p>

<p>"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."</p>

<p>The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.</p>

<p>"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]</p>

<p>Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.</p>

<p>Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]</p>


Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

<p>Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.</p>

<p>The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.</p>

<p>The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.</p>

<p>The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]</p>

<p>The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.</p>

<p>"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.</p>

<p>"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.</p>

<p>"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.</p>

<p>"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]</p>

<p>The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.</p>

<p>Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.</p>

<p>EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.</p>

<p>WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.</p>

<p>"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.</p>

<p>"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."</p>

<p>Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]</p>


Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

<p>When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.</p>

<p>But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.</p>

<p>As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.</p>

<p>For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.</p>

<p>If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.</p>

<p>That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.</p>

<p>It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.</p>

<p>As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.</p>

<p>Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.</p>

<p><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/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.</p>

<p>The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.</p>

<p>For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.</p>

<p>For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.</p>

<p>A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.</p>


The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.</p>

<p>Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.</p>

<p>A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" /></p>

<p>"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.</p>

<p>"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."</p>

<p>The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" /></p>

<p>Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.</p>

<p>The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.</p>

<p>"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."</p>

<p>"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."</p>

<p>Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.</p>

<p>HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.</p>


HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

<p>Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.</p>

<p>But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.</p>

<p>Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.</p>

<p>In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.</p>

<p>That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.</p>

<p>The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.</p>

<p>Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.</p>

<p>Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.</p>

<p>Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.</p>

<p>Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.</p>

<p>"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.</p>

<p>"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.</p>

<p>"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."</p>

<p>For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.</p>

<p>Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?</p>

<p>As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.</p>


What does it really mean for a building to be 'green'?

<p>Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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).</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

<p>To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:</p>

<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>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.</p>

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="252" data-start="225">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong data-end="413" data-start="389">Stamp Duty Benefits:</strong> Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.</p>

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Benefits</strong>: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.</p>

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="920" data-start="893">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong data-end="1162" data-start="1135">Stamp Duty Concessions:</strong> Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.</p>

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Concessions:</strong> Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.</p>

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="1617" data-start="1590">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.</p>

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Relief:</strong> Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.</p>

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant</strong>: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Exemption</strong>: 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.</p>

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Exemption</strong>: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>


Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

<p>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.</p>

<p>Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.</p>

<p>Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.</p>

<p>A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.</p>

<p>NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.</p>

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

<p><strong>Energy Efficiency:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Cost Savings:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Environmental Impact:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Improved Comfort: </strong>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.</p>

<p><strong>Market Value and Desirability:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Compliance with Building Codes:</strong> 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.</p>


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?

<p>Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.</p>

<p>Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

<p style="line-height: 1.38;">When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.</p>

<p style="line-height: 1.38;">Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.</p>

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

<p>Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.</p>

<p>It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.</p>

<p style="line-height: 1.38;"><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></p>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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!</p>

<p>Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:</p>

<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>

<p style="line-height:1.38">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.</p>


Ellen Walker

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

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<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">With one of the country’s biggest lenders announcing lending restrictions to certain suburbs, could this signal changes which could have a much broader impact to the property market?</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p><strong>Tiered pricing </strong></p>
<p>It’s not unrealistic for banks to change pricing structures and cap LVR’s based on suburbs. This could take the form of higher rates and/or low LVR caps for certain ‘high risk’ suburbs and lower rates and higher LVRs for what lenders consider a ‘safer’ suburb. A recent example was ING DIRECT’s decision in June to restrict investment lending in NSW to a maximum LVR of 80% (usually 90%), but this has since been restricted to 80% in all other states as well. If this becomes a market-wide issue, this could impact existing owners if they decided to refinance under new rules by making such a move to the goalposts.</p>
<p><strong>Specific apartment developments under the spotlight </strong></p>
<p>If lenders start to put a red flag on suburbs, specific apartment developments which are deemed high risk or where there’s a glut of development, might be next. This could squeeze a huge percentage of investors out of the market,  reducing the affordability and ‘entry point’ for many first time buyers and see them locked out of certain developments but leave the gate open for overseas investors. </p>
<p>These two changes could see a big shift in the way people buy property altogether by changing buying habits, upping rates and lowering accessibility for new buyers. </p>
<p><strong>Change buying habits</strong></p>
<p>If either of these changes occur, we’ll see a shift in the market. Investors will flood certain suburbs because it’s the only places they can buy and owner occupiers will be locked out of certain suburbs due to LVR restrictions. This could have a big impact on property prices - and that of surrounding suburbs - and at a higher level, the demographic make-up of a city. </p>
<p><strong>Increase in number of declined loans </strong></p>
<p>Being knocked back for finance based on a building type or suburb could have a residual impact on a borrower’s ability to apply for loans. This could also impact a borrowers credit score more broadly.<span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p><strong>Higher rates across the board </strong></p>
<p>If tiering and capping presents too much of a logistical challenge for lenders combined with a backlash from borrowers, lenders may choose to cover their credit risk by simply increasing interest rates across the board. </p>
<p><strong>Lenders withdrawing from some areas altogether </strong></p>
<p>Mining towns have already been mentioned as high risk areas and if we see large lenders withdraw form these areas, smaller lenders will likely follow suit. This trend tends to apply for most high level changes like pricing or lending criteria – when the big guys move, the smaller lenders follow.</p>
<p><em><span>STEVE JOVCEVSKI</span> is property expert at Mozo.com.au.</em></p>
<p><em>FOR MORE INSIDER INFORMATION ON PROPERTY LOANS, RATES AND MORE: DOWNLOAD THE<a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/forward-planning/tools/ebooks-and-webinars/42368-get-loan-savvy-expert-tips-for-a-first-time-investment-or-refinancing-loan-in-a-free-ebook" target="_blank"> FREE MOZO EBOOK</a>.</em></p>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Lending criteria changes have potential to lock owner-occupiers out of market: Mozo's Steve Jovcevski

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<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The exchange rate depreciation is helping the tourism sector, according to the Reserve Bank deputy governor Philip Lowe.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">In a recent speech he noted Australia's long-term economic growth rate has typically averaged about 3.25%, but may have fallen below 3%. </span></p>
<p class="textAlignCenter"><a href="/images/2015/10/06/sp-dg-2015-09-09-graph9-small.gif" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p class="textAlignCenter"><img src="/images/2015/10/06/sp-dg-2015-09-09-graph9-small.gif" alt=""> <br><a class="displayNone" href="https://www.rba.gov.au/speeches/2015/images/sp-dg-2015-09-09-graph9.gif" target="_blank" title="Link, opening in a new window, to larger image."><br></a></p>
<p>"As the relative cost of overseas travel has increased, more Australians are holidaying domestically and more people are visiting our shores," he noted.</p>
<p>"Encouragingly, we are now seeing some signs that this change in travel patterns is prompting a pick-up in investment in the tourism industry.</p>
<p>"In particular, there has been a noticeable increase in the stock of work to be done in the construction of hotel and related accommodation (Graph 10).</p>
<p>"The RBA's liaison with tourism-related businesses suggests that further increases in investment in this area are likely in coming years," <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/speeches/2015/sp-dg-2015-09-09" target="_blank">he noted to the <span>Committee for Economic Development of Australia audience</span></a>.</p>
<p class="graphCaption">Graph 10</p>
<p class="textAlignCenter"><a href="/images/2015/10/06/sp-dg-2015-09-09-graph10-small.gif" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p class="textAlignCenter"><img src="/images/2015/10/06/sp-dg-2015-09-09-graph10-small.gif" alt=""></p>
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Further Australian tourism construction to come during dollar downturn: RBA's Philip Lowe

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<p>ASIC has permanently banned Mr Shiv Prakash Sahay, of Lidcombe NSW, from the credit and financial services industries.</p>
<p><span>The bans follow an ASIC investigation which led to Mr Sahay being convicted on 7 July 2015 in Sydney Downing Centre Local Court on three charges of making false statements, making false documents and using false documents in home loan applications. </span></p>
<p><span>He was sentenced to 350 hours of community service work.</span></p>
<p><span>ASIC deputy chair Peter Kell said ASIC's action against Mr Sahay shows how seriously we are about tackling loan fraud.</span></p>
<p><span> 'We won't hesitate to take strong action to remove dishonest brokers, who falsify loan documents to the detriment of their clients, from the industry'.</span></p>
<p><span>Mr Sahay has the right to appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal for a review of ASIC's decision. </span></p>
<p><span>Background</span></p>
<p><span>On 26 May 2015, Mr Sahay pleaded guilty to three charges of:</span></p>
<p><span>1. making 13 false statements in loan applications submitted by him on behalf of his clients to Bankwest and Suncorp;</span></p>
<p><span>2. making 23 false documents in support of those false statements, mainly bank statements; and</span></p>
<p><span>3. using 26 false documents in loan applications submitted by him on behalf of his clients to Bankwest (a division of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia) and Suncorp Metway Limited. </span></p>
<p><span>On 7 July 2015, Mr Sahay was convicted and sentenced to 350 hours of community service work  for the above three charges. </span></p>
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

ASIC bans convicted finance broker over Bankwest and Suncorp home loan applications

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<p class="closing">The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has released a calculator to help potential investors work out three key factors behind an interest-only mortgage.</p>
<p class="closing"><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The interest-only mortgage calculator, <a href="https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/calculators-and-apps/interest-only-mortgage-calculator?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=MoneySmart+tips+-+October+2015&amp;utm_content=MoneySmart+tips+-+October+2015+CID_0285e24379a5279d45b24b562a5b1177&amp;utm_source=CampaignMonitor&amp;utm_term=interest-only%20mortgage%20calculator" target="_blank">available here</a>, crunches the numbers behind t</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">he repayments before and after the interest-only period, t</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">he total cost of an interest-only mortgage and h</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">ow much more you will pay with an interest-only mortgage compared to a principal and interest loan.</span></p>
<p class="closing"><span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">ASIC has also released a handy guide to interest-only loans for property investors </span><a href="/expert-insights/finance/asics-interest-only-guide-for-property-investors">available here</a><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">, as well as <span>a checklist for property investors considering </span><a href="/expert-insights/finance/are-interest-only-mortgages-in-your-interest-asic">interest-only payments for mortgages</a></span></span></p>
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mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

ASIC releases interest-only mortgage calculator

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<p>GUEST OBSERVER</p>
<p>Every year the spring market attracts massive attention. September is seen as a litmus test for the rest of the year and a stern assessment of how resilient the property market really is. It’s the AFL Grand Finals of real estate – which, oddly enough, is on at the same time.</p>
<p>This year’s been no different. After a very strong winter, especially in Sydney and Melbourne, the pressure on the September markets has been huge. This has been exacerbated by the stringent restrictions brought in on investment loans by the major banks. Also, cautionary warnings of apartment oversupply have meant that investors are studying the market with high-beamed intensity.</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">But how much can we really read into September? Is it really just a snapshot in time or is it indicative of long-term market trends?</span></p>
<p>Let’s start with the clearance rates. Sydney’s clearance rates have slightly dropped as have Melbourne’s. Last year Sydney was hitting the 80% clearance mark regularly, whereas this year it’s been around the mid 70s. The so called “Super Saturday”, the last Saturday of September saw clearance rates in Sydney slip a fraction below 70 percent for the first time this year.  Melbourne has also lost a few points, from around the high 70s to mid 70s this month. However, it’s crucial to remember two important things: this year has seen a record number of properties come onto the market. This has been because such a buoyant winter has caused many owners to try and cash in quickly. So the market has been absorbing a flood of properties and the increased competition has led to a slight drop in clearances. A result in the 70% region for September is still very strong.</p>
<p>The second thing worth noting is that while clearance rates have dropped, prices really haven’t. So while various media outlets have been quick to prophesy doom and gloom there’s absolutely no evidence of falling prices. In the same article in Sydney Morning Herald’s Domain about the drop in clearance rates there was news of a Darling Point property going for almost $3 million above reserve. Auction results generally have shown that sales prices are still strong. The market is robust enough to cope.</p>
<p>There is a clear confidence in the local markets as shown by the numbers of investors going to auction. The markets have themselves repaid this confidence with still strong auction results and relatively short turnarounds.</p>
<p>To get a handle on the national figures you need to delve deeper. There is a clear disparity between cities like Sydney and Melbourne which have been relentlessly driving the property markets upward and that of cities like Darwin, Perth and Canberra which are all experiencing negative growth and sliding clearance rates. This then averages out the national sales figures.<span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p>The media has also been a big factor. Every week there’s been warnings of an imminent burst in the property bubble or a collapse in prices. This can cause a flow on panic factor, with investors rushing to sell before doomsday arrives. So far doomsday is still running late.</p>
<p>It’s important to remember that since 2009 Sydney has recorded a phenomenal growth of 76 percent according to Core Data figures. If you bought a property back then, on average, you would have seen this jump by around $300K in the last six years. Sydney and Melbourne remain highly desirable cities to live in. They’ve shown their resilience and ability to absorb wild property price swings in the past. They’re both international cities highly attractive to overseas investors. Whilst an oversupply of apartments in both cities may slow down parts of the market in the short term - it will inevitably catch up again.<span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p>Beyond the two big cities, outlying regional centers such as Wollongong in NSW and Geelong in Victoria have been experiencing record property price booms as investors start to look outwards.  In the Illawarra region, for instance, auction clearances are going over 80%, a truly remarkable outcome.</p>
<p>To understand the clearance rates each city has to be broken down into its geographic areas. These can wildly differ. For example, Sydney’s North Shore has been having very good clearance rates and the eastern suburb properties are firing yet the south western suburbs are identifiably weaker. In fact clearance rates in the south west have fallen in the last year from around 69.8% to 54.9%. This is a pretty dramatic drop. But does it speak for the rest of the heated Sydney market? Probably not.</p>
<p>So ultimately it comes down to picking the right long term growth suburb and choosing the ideal property type. A good long-term investment property will not be affected by the vagaries of the spring market. This is why it’s always an excellent idea to chat to a professional who can offer solid research and help create a strategy that bypasses the flurry of the market.</p>
<p><em><span>SAM KHALIL</span> is founder and director of <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/" target="_blank">Direct Property Network</a>.</em></p>
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SamKhalil-UNoWQ73CmG

The property doomsday is running late: DPN's Sam Khalil

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<p>Perth's median house price fell by 2.7% or $15,000 in the September quarter when compared to June, according to the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia.</p>
<p>The median house price is now $535,000.</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Sales turnover was down 14% when compared to the previous quarter.</span></p>
<p>REIWA Deputy President Hayden Groves said the adjustment in price of 2.7% was quite modest given the high number of properties on the market. </p>
<p>“Currently we have almost 15,000 listings on the Perth market, which is up by about 3,000 on what we would consider normal,” Mr Groves said. </p>
<p>"Listings for sale were up by 9% in the quarter and up by 44% on the same time last year. <span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The biggest growth in listings over the last three months was found in the north-east sub region which includes the Shires of Kalamunda and Mundaring, along with the City of Swan. </span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">This region saw a further 305 properties added to the sales market, bringing it to a total of 1,952 listings at quarter’s end.</span></p>
<p>"Top selling suburbs overall included Butler, Ellenbrook, Bayswater, Baldivis and Canning Vale, largely reflecting first home buyer activity. <span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Only a handful of areas saw an increase in turnover for the quarter, but these included Fremantle, Gosnells, Cockburn and Armadale."</span></p>
<p>In the rental market the vacancy rate has lifted slightly to 5.4 per cent for the three months to August, with some 8,311 rental properties on the market. <span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
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Perth house prices, rents, down in September: REIWA 

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<p><span>The CAMA RBA Shadow Board believes the RBA will keep the current interest rate on hold at 2% due to a weakening outlook for the global economy and shaky financial markets.</span></p>
<p><span>According to the CAMA RBA Shadow Board, due to the latest estimates of inflation at 1.5%, below the RBA’s target band of 2-3%, and delayed action by the US Fed, 72% of Shadow Board members believe the RBA will keep rates as they are.</span></p>
<p><span>The said the Australian property market is still looking strong, with the construction PMI surging to 53.8 in August, from 47.1 in July. </span></p>
<p><span>"However, in the same month building permits have fallen by nearly 7%. The local stock market has been suffering considerable losses, the S&amp;P/ASX200 closing below 5000 earlier this week. With heightened uncertainty affecting global capital markets, it is unlikely domestic share prices will rebound significantly," it said.</span></p>
<p><span>"The Federal Reserve Bank has delayed the highly anticipated increase in the federal funds rate, citing low inflationary pressure and fragile capital markets. Delayed action by the Federal Reserve is likely to reduce the pressure to increase the domestic cash rate. In Europe, attention has shifted from the Greek debt crisis to the unabating refugee crisis. China’s economy continues to slow, with its manufacturing sector contracting for the second month in a row. Many experts are now expecting China’s GDP growth to fall to 6%. Global capital markets continue to pose threats.</span></p>
<p>"The probabilities at longer horizons are as follows: 6 months out, the estimated probability that the cash rate should remain at 2% equals 25% (27% in September). The estimated need for an interest rate increase lies at 62% (65% in September), while the need for a rate decrease is estimated at 13% (8% in September). A year out, the Shadow Board members’ confidence in a required cash rate increase equals 68% (six percentage points down from September), in a required cash rate decrease 14% (9% in September) and in a required hold of the cash rate 18% (unchanged)."</p>
<p> </p>
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RBA to keep interest rates on hold

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<p><span>It was a quiet week for auctions this week due to the grand finals and the Labour Day long weekend. </span></p>
<p><span>841 properties were taken to auction across the combined capital cities and the preliminary clearance rate was recorded at 69.6 per cent, the lowest clearance rate since the second week of February. In comparison, last week was the busiest week for auctions since the end of March with 2,835 auctions held, however the final clearance rate was only 69.7 per cent. Over the same weekend last year, when only the NRL grand final was being played (The AFL grand final was held a week earlier) almost twice as many auctions were held (1,650); however the clearance rate was a lower 66.9 per cent.<br></span></p>
<p><a href="/images/2015/10/06/20151006-capital-city.jpg" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
<p><span><img src="/images/2015/10/06/20151006-capital-city.jpg" alt="" width="837" height="630"></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>Across </span><strong>Melbourne</strong><span>, 90 auctions were held this week and the preliminary clearance rate was recorded at 67.7 per cent, the third lowest clearance rate for the year, compared to last week’s final clearance rate of 72.7 per cent across 1,201 auctions. This time last year, 69.1 per cent of the 912 properties taken to auction sold. Across Melbourne’s individual sub-regions, the strongest performer in terms of clearance rate this week was the North West region, where 8 of the 10 reported auctions were successful. Meanwhile, the South East region was host to the highest number of auctions (21).</span></p>
<p><a href="/images/2015/10/06/20151006-Melbourne.jpg" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
<p><span><img src="/images/2015/10/06/20151006-Melbourne.jpg" alt="" width="682" height="447"></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>In </span><strong>Sydney</strong><span>, preliminary results show a clearance rate of 71.4 per cent across 448 results, with a total of 567 auctions held across the city this week. Last week, the clearance rate was 71.7 per cent across 1,200 auctions. Looking at last year, there were 473 auctions held and a clearance rate of 76.4 per cent was recorded. The Inner West region of Sydney, where 32 auction results have been reported with a clearance rate of 90.6 per cent, is the strongest performing sub-region this week. City and Inner South (79.4 per cent), and North Sydney and Hornsby (78.2 per cent) also recorded strong clearance rates.</span></p>
<p><a href="/images/2015/10/06/20151006-Sydney.jpg" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
<p><span><img src="/images/2015/10/06/20151006-Sydney.jpg" alt="" width="709" height="480"></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Brisbane</strong><span> was host to 118 auctions this week, down from 203 last week and similar to last years 117. Of the 87 results reported so far, 64.4 per cent have sold, up from last week’s final clearance rate of 54.9 per cent and the 47.4 per cent clearance rate recorded last year. This week, 28 </span><strong>Gold</strong><span> </span><strong>Coast</strong><span> auction results have been reported and the preliminary clearance rate based on these results is 42.9 per cent.</span></p>
<p><a href="/images/2015/10/06/20151006-Brisbane.jpg" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
<p><span><img src="/images/2015/10/06/20151006-Brisbane.jpg" alt="" width="726" height="487"></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>There were 32 </span><strong>Adelaide</strong><span> homes taken to auction this week with a preliminary clearance rate of 71.4 per cent across 28 results. This week’s clearance rate is higher than both last week, when 68.1 per cent of the 127 auctions sold, and this time last year, when a clearance rate of only 53.7 per cent was recorded across 63 auctions.</span></p>
<p><a href="/images/2015/10/06/20151006-Adelaide.jpg" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
<p><span><img src="/images/2015/10/06/20151006-Adelaide.jpg" alt="" width="803" height="542"></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Just 10 auctions were held in <strong>Perth</strong> this week, significantly lower than both last week (25) and last year (23). Perth’s clearance rate was 75.0 per cent this week, up from 31.6 per cent last week and 25.0 per cent last year.</p>
<p>Across <strong>Canberra</strong>, the preliminary clearance rate was 53.8 per cent across 13 results. Last week, Canberra’s clearance rate was 58.5 per cent, while one year ago, only 29.3 per cent of auctions were successful.</p>
<p>Of the 4 auctions held in <strong>Tasmania</strong> this week, there were 2 successful sales.</p>
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smiller-vwPjRHTkST

Grand finals upstage capital city auction markets: Shana Miller

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<div class="separator">
<span style="line-height: 1.3em;">I noted</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> recently that it pays to be wary when studies invariably reveal that the "strongest" property price growth over a carefully specified time period proves to be in a random suburb located somewhere to the west of White Cliffs which you've almost inevitably never heard of.</span>
</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">Most likely the sample size for the data series is inappropriately miniscule, and the movements in median price are thus inclined to lurch around accordingly.</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">There was recently some debate, for example, as to whether property prices have actually been soaring even in regional New South Wales towns where the population has been in decline.</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>Sure, low interest rates have sparked a boom in Sydney property prices...but out in the sticks and even where the population is declining? <span>I don't believe so - that wouldn't make any sense at all! </span>
</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Regional median prices</span></strong></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>Check out in the two charts below the median price data for Lightning Ridge and Walgett which were two of the quoted suburbs where the median prices have apparently boomed by more than +75 per cent over the past decade despite being home to reportedly declining populations.  </div>
<div> </div>
<div>As you can see there are so few sales in any given month - indeed, there are zero transactions in many instances - that even the smoothed 6mMA average median prices can comfortably more than double (or halve) in the matter of only a few months.<br><br>The median price data is to all intents and purposes meaningless.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/10/06/1%20-%20Lightning%20Ridge%20MEdian%20Prices.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/10/06/1%20-%20Lightning%20Ridge%20MEdian%20Prices.jpg" alt=""></div>
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<div><a href="/images/2015/10/06/2%20-%20Walgett%20Median%20Price.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/10/06/2%20-%20Walgett%20Median%20Price.jpg" alt=""></div>
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<strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Like-for-like sales</span></strong><br><br>If you want to work out what is really happening to house prices in a suburb, you ideally need to look at resales of the same properties.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>And even then you need to find like-for-like sales or else improvements can skew the data viciously higher. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Take the below 1,000sqm block in Lightning Ridge which according to my sales history database appears at first blush to have increased in value to by an outlandish 1,400 per cent since 2003! </div>
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<div>Until, that is, you realise that the owner has recently developed the block with two brand new homes - a 4 bedroom house and a 2 bedroom home - with a combined rental of $550/week.<br><br>This is fairly typical of price action which skews the median price data upwards, but it is clearly manufactured rather than endogenous growth.</div>
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<div><a href="/images/2015/10/06/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-06%20at%209.47.04%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/10/06/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-06%20at%209.47.04%20AM.png" alt="" width="861" height="655"></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span>If you look at genuinely like-for-like sales in Lightning Ridge, however, such as the below recent sale on a 1,110sqm block, you'll find that capital growth over the past quarter of a century or so has been much closer to zero per cent. </span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/10/06/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-06%20at%209.48.32%20AM.png" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></div>
<div><span><img src="/images/2015/10/06/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-06%20at%209.48.32%20AM.png" alt="" width="786" height="571"></span></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span>And it's a similar story in nearby Walgett, with the below house having achieved capital 'growth' over the past 25 years of negative $1,000.</span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/10/06/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-06%20at%209.50.55%20AM.png" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></div>
<div><span><img src="/images/2015/10/06/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-06%20at%209.50.55%20AM.png" alt="" width="771" height="554"></span></div>
<div>
<div>As for booming prices in Hay, which was another suburb quoted as having boomed by more than +70 per cent despite a declining population, there also appears to be very little exciting to see here when you look at like-for-like resales over time, with total capital growth since 2006 on this example property of only $1,000.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Click to enlarge</div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/10/06/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-06%20at%209.52.21%20AM.png" alt="" width="773" height="516"></div>
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<div>
<div class="separator">Yet anothern NSW suburb which is quoted as having soared in value by more than +70 per cent despite its declining population was Brewarinna. </div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">Over the past year the suburb has recorded median price growth of precisely +25.00 per cent - with the median price having increased to exactly $100,000 - apparently impressive numbers, even if they do appear to be suspiciously round in nature.</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">It's only when you realise that the entire data series is based on the grand total of eleven home sales that you realise how meaningless the median price data really can be.  </div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The wrap</span></strong></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">Now don't get me wrong, I am very much on board with the argument that easy credit flows can be and is one of the primary drivers of dwelling prices.</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">Indeed, it is the very fact that today folk can borrow money at a 4 per cent cost of capital instead of double digit mortgage rates which is perhaps <em><strong>the</strong> </em>most significant factor in rising dwelling prices. </div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">What I am saying, however, is that median dwelling prices in regional towns should be treated with a great deal of caution, if not dispensed with altogether.</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">As a penultimate point, I would also question whether a Sydney suburb where the population has ticked down by -0.2 per cent really has a "declining" population, when this is more likely to be simply a shift in the composition of households.</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="/images/2015/10/06/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-06%20at%209.53.53%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2015/10/06/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-06%20at%209.53.53%20AM.png" alt="" width="773" height="339"></div>
<div class="separator">
<div class="separator">Indeed, it is the very <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/population-growth-and-property-price" target="_blank">l</a>ack of population growth in some landlocked suburbs - reflective of the fact that they are fully built out - which makes them more appealing for investment purposes. </div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">On a related note, you'd have a tough time convincing the residents of, say, Orange, Dubbo, Lismore or Parkes of their supposedly declining populations, whatever the suburb level or LGA stats may say...but that's a debate for another day! </div>
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<div class="separator">
<p><span><em>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>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>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>.</em></p>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Rubbery suburb median prices: Pete Wargent

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<p>New South Wales auction results for the week ending Sunday 4 October show a preliminary clearance rate of 71% from 567 scheduled auctions.</p>
<div class="reported-auctions">
<div class="num">According to data from realestate.com.au, 217 were sold at auction within NSW, <span style="line-height: 1.3em;">91 </span>passed in and <span style="line-height: 1.3em;">102 </span>sold prior to auction.</div>
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<div class="num">One standout sale in the Sydney suburb of Bexley was a three bedroom home sold for $1,200,000 at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bexley-120662193" target="_blank">1 Bowood Avenue</a>. The median price for a home in <a href="/news">Bexley is $988,000</a>, according to CoreLogic RP Data.</div>
<div class="num"> </div>
<div class="num"><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/auction-results/nsw?rsf=edm:auction:nsw" target="_blank">Click here to see the full state breakout.</a></div>
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