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.

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.

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.

"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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

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.

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;

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.

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"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."

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.

"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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

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.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

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.

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.

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.

<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.

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

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.

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<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.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"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.

"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.

"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."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

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.

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.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"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."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

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.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

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.

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.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

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.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<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>

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.

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.

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.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

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.

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

<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.

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.

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.

<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" />

"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.

"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."

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.

<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" />

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.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"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."

"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."

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.

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.

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

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.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

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.

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.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

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.

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.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

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.

"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."

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.

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.

"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.

"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.

"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."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

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?

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.

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

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

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First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

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

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Newly approved housing supply has moved to new record heights, with 214,331 dwelling approvals recorded nationally over the past year.
The proportion of these approvals which were for units is also at a record high, accounting for 45.9% of all approvals.
The surge in dwelling approvals has coincided with very low interest rates and surging demand from the investment segment of the market. 
Across the combined capital cities more than half of all dwelling approvals are for units and in each capital city (except Adelaide, Perth and Hobart) more than 50% of approvals over the past year were for units. 
Data from the 2011 Census shows that across the country units are more than twice as likely to be rented as houses. This would indicate a clear preference from the investment segment which is currently so active, for units over houses.
While the number of new dwellings being approved is significant, it is worthwhile examining on a smaller scale the regions where the new housing supply is being approved. Looking at dwelling approvals across SA4 regions of the country, we have listed the top 20 regions for approvals for both houses and units over the 2014-15 financial year to April 2014.
For houses, the region with the greatest number of approvals over the financial year to-date was South East Melbourne (which includes council regions such as Casey and Cardinia) with 4,874 approvals. Looking at the top 20 list published, 15 of the 20 regions listed are located within capital cities with only Geelong, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Latrobe-Gippsland and Bunbury in non-capital city areas. The top 20 list shows 3 NSW regions, 6 regions from Vic, 5 regions from Qld, 1 SA region and 5 regions from WA.
<a href="/images/2015/06/30/2015-06-22--01--house-approvals-2014-15-financial-year-SA4-regions.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2015/06/30/2015-06-22--01--house-approvals-2014-15-financial-year-SA4-regions.jpg" alt="">
Turning to unit approvals, the list highlights the magnitude of approvals in Inner Melbourne with 12,516 approvals so far this financial year.
This region is already seeing a huge volume of new construction and the pipeline just keeps growing.
To put the volume of approvals in perspective, Brisbane Inner City with the second highest number of approvals (5,808) has less than half as many unit approvals as Inner Melbourne.
The Gold Coast is the only non-capital city area listed amongst the top 20 regions for unit approvals. Looking at the state-by-state breakdown there are 6 NSW regions listed, 6 Vic regions, 4 Qld regions, 1 SA region, 2 WA regions and 1 ACT region.
<a href="/images/2015/06/30/2015-06-22--02--unit-approvals-2014-15-financial-year-SA4-regions.jpg" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/06/30/2015-06-22--02--unit-approvals-2014-15-financial-year-SA4-regions.jpg" alt="">
 
With the pipeline of construction activity remaining high and much of it high-density development, the multiplier effect from heightened construction activity should continue for a number of years. 
Of course the biggest hurdle may start to be achieving necessary presales for these projects commence particularly given that many financial institutions are now starting to tighten their lending practices on the request of APRA. 
With a particular focus on investment mortgages this may have an impact on demand from investors who are seemingly a key driver of the surging demand for inner city units.
Cameron Kusher is RP Data’s senior research analyst. Follow Cameron on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/cmkusher" target="_blank">here</a>. 
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Surge in dwelling approvals: Cameron Kusher

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A preliminary auction clearance rate of 78.0% was recorded across the combined capital cities this week having increased from 77.3% last week. There were 1,777 auction results reported this week with a total of 2,205 scheduled auctions showing that auction volumes have remained virtually unchanged when compared to the previous week (2,268). In comparison, over the same week last year 66.6% of the 1,991 homes taken to auction sold.
<a href="/images/2015/06/29/shana1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2015/06/29/shana1.jpg" alt="" width="820" height="620">
The preliminary auction clearance rate across Melbourne was 78.5% this week, down from the previous weeks final result of 79.3% and stronger than at the same time last year (68.3%). So far this year, Melbourne’s weekly auction clearance rate has been, on average, 10.6 per cent higher than over the comparable week one year ago. Across Melbourne’s individual sub-regions, the strongest preliminary clearance rate this week was across the North East region at 85.8%, followed closely by the Inner East region where the preliminary clearance rate was 85%.
 
<img src="/images/2015/06/29/20150628-Melbourne.jpg" alt="" width="796" height="539">
There were 887 Sydney homes taken to auction this week and a preliminary clearance rate of 83.5% across 747 results. Over the previous week, the final auction clearance rate was 82.4% with 862 auctions held across the city. At the same time last year, 71.1% of the 861 homes taken to auction recorded a successful result. This week, the strongest sub-region performance across Sydney’s sub-regions was the Ryde region, with 90.6% of the reported results clearing at auction.
<img src="/images/2015/06/29/20150628-Sydney.jpg" alt="" width="811" height="556">
Brisbane’s preliminary clearance rate was 51.1% this week, compared to 52.2% last week and 42.2% at the same time last year. Across Brisbane, a total of 140 auctions were held this week which is higher than last week (128), but lower than at the same time last year (153).
<img src="/images/2015/06/29/20150628-Brisbane.jpg" alt="" width="801" height="539">
 
Adelaide hosted 81 auctions this week and across the 48 reported results, CoreLogic RP Data’s preliminary auction clearance rate is 70.8%. Last week, Adelaide’s clearance rate was 63.5% across 83 auctions in the city, while at the same time last year 62.7% of the 79 homes taken to auction were sold.
<img src="/images/2015/06/29/20150628-Adelaide.jpg" alt="" width="844" height="566">
For Perth, the number of homes taken to auction this week was 29, less than last week (47) and last year (39). Meanwhile, Perth’s clearance rate of 57.1% this week was higher than last week (38.9%) and last year (50.0%.
Across Canberra 72 homes were taken to auction this week and the preliminary clearance rate across 32 auctions was 81.3 per cent.
There were 22 auctions across Tasmania this week, with 10 successful results out of the 20 reported.
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smiller-vwPjRHTkST

National auction clearance rate rises: CoreLogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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The Australian property markets find themselves in an unprecedented quandary with record low cash rates that have driven investment property prices in Sydney and Melbourne to record levels. The problem as I see it is that it is highly unlikely that such dizzy heights can be maintained, so that said one can assume that prices should start plateauing. 
The problem with that scenario is that given the present market conditions this is highly unlikely as property investors are only interested in Sydney and Melbourne real estate.
The owner occupier property market is much slower with stock levels at all-time lows which can be attributed to the fact that businesses are no longer paying cash bonuses preferring to reward staff with shares. What this has done is take billions of dollars from the owner occupier property markets which explains in principle why the owner occupier markets are so slow.
Nobody can really explain why property investors are only interested in Melbourne and Sydney especially when Australia is experiencing an unprecedented population explosion. This becomes even more confusing when we hear that Australia’s east coast is the destination expected to feel the full brunt of this population explosion.
This year I have been in dialogue with Richardson &amp; Wrench Projects where I have attended some information seminars to learn more about this fascinating investor market. The problem with real estate agents is that our knowledge is always contained within a particular postcode, hence a reluctance to look outside our comfort zone which is the very same mindset as property investors.
So the first question I wanted to know was where are the next best areas to invest outside Sydney and Melbourne, that are more much affordable with strong capital growth, excellent rental returns and with strong depreciation allowances. My question was answered immediately with two areas – Newcastle and Brisbane – well, that makes sense as they are both on the east coast with strong population forecasts.
With that in mind it was off to Brisbane to have a look around and see just why Brisbane is considered the next area to chase property investor returns. The first thing you notice is their road infrastructure is superior to Sydney’s with nowhere near the traffic congestion. Just like what we are now seeing with NSW where government is now on a record infrastructure spend, although in NSW we keep adding a new lane to infrastructure that was only constructed ten years ago. The government has allocated a further 120 billion dollars for infrastructure over the next three decades.
A new international airport and the big star attraction is the new Las Vegas style $4.000 billion casino – in many instances the South Bank area (which is the area I liked the most) reminded me of what’s happening at Barangaroo on Sydney Harbor. Although at a fraction of the price.
One of the most interesting points that really resonated with me was that the Richardson &amp; Wrench Projects team told me that they actually reject 90 per cent of projects that fail their strict criteria – which was evidenced in their project investment reports which are about sixty pages of research data. Investors in Sydney and Melbourne usually get a one or two page report if they are lucky which always have the usual disclaimers.
So what happens to the ninety per cent of developments that were rejected was my next question? Well, they lure those unsuspecting property investors and stitch them up which explains why property investors stick to the areas that sit well within their comfort zones – even though they know they are paying top dollar.
Australians love investing in property which explains why so much is written about bubbles, crashes and fear factor frenzies. So if you are contemplating stepping out of your comfort zone and looking for an investment area to watch closely we would recommend Brisbane – it’s a very interesting exercise especially for those who insist that you only invest in Sydney and Melbourne. I am the first to admit that this week’s visit to Brisbane has completely changed my property investment train of thought.
It’s important to note that Australia is changing (so must our perceptions) with the latest Bureau of Statistics projections now have Melbourne as Australia’s biggest growing city. Melbourne is tracking to become the country’s biggest city in 2056 and has also overtaken Western Australia to now be Australia’s fastest growing state.
MOSMAN – 2088
• Number of houses on the market this time last year – 74
• Number of houses on the market last week – 46
• Number of houses on the market this week – 43
• Number of apartments on the market this time last year – 57
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 43
• Number of apartments on the market this week – 39
CREMORNE – 2090
Number of houses on the market this time last year – 11
• Number of houses on the market last week – 6
• Number of houses on the market this week – 4
• Number of apartments on the market this time last year –11
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 8
• Number of apartments on the market this week – 12
NEUTRAL BAY – 2089
* Number of houses on the market this time last year – 3
• Number of houses on the market last week – 2
•Number of houses on the market this week – 2
• Number of apartments on the market this time last year– 42
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 30
• Number of apartments on the market this week – 39
ROBERT SIMEON is a director of <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" target="_blank" title="RWM" rel="nofollow">Richardson Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay</a> and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985.  He has also been writing real estate blog <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" target="_blank" title="Virtual Realty News" rel="nofollow">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000.
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robertsimeon-hRNTwJyXkQ

Searching for the next investor hot spots? Robert Simeon

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Melbourne notched up a clearance rate of 79% compared to 77% last weekend and 73% this weekend last year.
There were 763 auctions reported to the REIV on the weekend.
Auction sales have continued to track higher with around 14,000 sales so far this year, the highest on record, Enzo Raimondo the REIV chief said.
"The outer Melbourne region experienced the strongest auction sales growth in the year date, up 20 per cent from the same time last year," Enzo Raimondo advised.
The top sale was a Malvern development site after eight bidders gathered in the backyard of the five-bedroom early-1900's Edwardian home on Friday afternoon.
It sold at $4.78 million after being advertised as "an exceptional opportunity to potentially develop as a luxury apartment complex." 
It had high ceilings, Baltic pine floors and stained glass windows. The 1,045 sqm site was near Spring Road.
 
TOP 5 HOUSES 
1. 1269 High Street, Malvern $4,780,000 (pictured above) 2. 20 Studley Avenue, Kew $4,580,000 3. 27 &amp; 29 Clyde Street, Box Hill North $3,565,000 4. 1A Monomeath Avenue, Canterbury $3,500,000
Malvern listings have been attracting very active attention on the realestateview.com.au website in the latter stages of autumn and early winter.
Analysis showed the top two most clicked sold listings on the website were in the inner eastern precinct, of varied price.
The list (below) coincided with a marketing campaign (below) by the website to promote its listing successes.
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<div class="full-adv"><a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/sell-my-home?utm_source=REIV&amp;utm_medium=banner&amp;utm_content=skyscraper&amp;utm_campaign=lets-go-fishing"><img src="https://www.reiv.com.au/~/media/advertisements/gone-fishing_skyscraper_160x600.ashx"></a></div>
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1) <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/29-hughes-street-malvern-east/Property-Details-sold-residential-8700900" target="_blank">29 Hughes Street, MALVERN EAST, VIC, 3145</a> Sold for $2,310,000 (pictured above)
A classic Californian-style four bedroom family home that blends the best of indoor and outdoor living. Complete with Blackbutt floorboards, wine cellar and large well-equipped kitchen, this trophy home features a full tiled solar heated pool as centrepiece.
2) <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/the-avenue-malvern-east/Property-Details-sold-residential-8611342" target="_blank">The Avenue , MALVERN EAST, VIC, 3145</a>, Sold for $825,000
Classic charm abounds in this renovated Art Deco home with raised ceilings, contemporary exposed joinery and immaculate finishings. Close to all amenities including schools, trams, cafes and parkland. 
3) <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/51-1-wellington-crescent-east-melbourne/Property-Details-sold-residential-8687258" target="_blank">51/1 Wellington Crescent, EAST MELBOURNE, VIC, 3002</a>, Price undisclosed
This two level penthouse is located in the Wellington Gardens complex and includes a third level entry, vast living areas and a leafy outlook. The complex itself features recreation and health facilities and secure entry.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Successful Malvern auction listings catching the most clicks

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Brisbane is the only capital city tipped to buck the national trend of easing median house prices in real terms over the next three years, according to housing forecasters, BIS Shrapnel.
But its housing market outlook has warned of a looming oversupply of inner city Brisbane apartments.
The BIS Shrapnel Residential Property Prospects 2015 to 2018 puts Brisbane's estimated median house price in this year at $520,000, which researcher Angie Zigomanis said that was still below Brisbane's June 2010 peak in real terms. Coupled with low interest rates, Brisbane's affordability was at levels seen in the early 2000s.
A total rise of 13 per cent in the Brisbane median house price is forecast over the three years to 2018, while the median unit price is forecast to rise by a total six per cent. Its new dwelling supply overall, without any significant rebound expected in population inflows, was set to move the Brisbane apartment sector nto oversupply, "with some impact across the broader market."
But significantly, Brisbane is tipped to be the only capital city that will not experience a decline in median house prices in real terms in the next three years.
Nationally low interest rates will support further price growth in undersupplied residential markets in 2015/16, but the spectre of tightening interest rates and deterioration of affordability will create conditions for price declines in a number of cities from 2017, according to the forecaster.
"But doomsday predictions for the residential market are likely to be overblown.
"Although Australia’s residential property markets are forecast to steadily weaken from 2016/17, as a combination of rising supply and the prospect of a tightening in interest rate policy impacts on prices, any downturn will be similar in magnitude to that seen over 2011-2012."
According to the company’s Residential Property Prospects, 2015 to 2018 report, Sydney and (to a lesser extent) Melbourne have broken away from the other capital cities, with both estimated to have recorded double-digit percentage rises in their median house prices in 2014/15.
Solid population growth, reasonably positive economic conditions and an underlying dwelling deficiency have underpinned this rise, and affordability is increasingly becoming a concern. In contrast, weaker recent price growth in the other capital cities means that affordability is not as strained, and it is subdued local economic conditions and/or an underlying excess dwelling stock that have impacted the market.
Angie Zigomanis, said that although low interest rates will continue to support prices, it was the demand and supply balance across the states that will play a part in the rate of price growth in the coming years.
"Moreover, the boom in apartment construction over the past couple of years is creating a disconnect in the supply balance between detached houses and units, with a resulting difference in their price outlook."
“Most capital cities are building apartments at record rates, driven by investor demand,” said Zigomanis. “As these projects are progressively completed, strong tenant demand will be required to support rents and consequently values upon completion.
“However, we are seeing population growth nationally begin to slow. Net overseas migration has fallen from a recent peak of 235,700 persons in 2012/13, to an estimated 184,000 persons in calendar 2014.
"With the majority of net overseas migration classified as ‘long term overseas visitors’, that is, temporary but not permanent arrivals, this reduction will impact most on the rental sector. Moreover, this slowdown in net overseas migration is most evident in the mining boom states of Western Australia, Queensland and Northern Territory.”
He noted the detached house market is less reliant on tenant demand and more exposed to owner occupiers. Together with the stimulatory effect of variable interest rates at more than 40-year lows, this is expected to support median house prices in most capital cities over 2015/16.
The strongest conditions over 2015/16 are forecast for New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria, where BIS Shrapnel estimates the markets are in overall deficiency at June 2015. 
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<div><a href="/images/2015/06/29/bis_brisbane.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
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<img src="/images/2015/06/29/bis_brisbane.jpg" alt="" width="798" height="293">
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Brisbane house prices to buck national easing trend: BIS Shrapnel 2018

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Karina and Brian, the West Australian couple were the first team to be eliminated from House Rules. Karina and Brian stood to pocket their mortgage of middle order $360,000 if they had won the latest Channel 7 series of House Rules.
<div class=" is-preview"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CIFfuVOWUAA-ikz.jpg" alt="Embedded image permalink"></div>
The remaining five contestants on the Seven reality home-renovation competition have mortgage prize potential between $250,000 and $448,000 with Bronik and Corrine potentially the biggest winner. It will be the cheapest mortgage prize yet in the three-series ratings winner, though Channel 7 are also giving away to <a href="/expert-insights/buying/house-rules-holiday-home-prize-at-toogoom-hervey-bay">a viewer a Toogoom, Hervey Bay holiday home.</a>
Viewers would expect Sydney to have the highest mortgage but Steve Falzon - of the <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/steve-and-tiana/#page1">father and daughter team </a>- bought his Shalvey house for $130,000 around 23 years ago. He has a $250,000 mortgage that would be wiped if they (pictured below) win the Johanna Griggs' hosted series.
<img src="/images/2015/05/20/700_steve_tiana.jpg" alt="">
 
2) Contestants, Ryan and Marlee's mortgage is $229,000 - paying off what the Adelaide couple dub the ugliest house in South Australia. Ryan Rebbeck purchased <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/houses/ryan-and-marlee/#page1" target="_blank">the house</a> four years ago alone, and works two jobs, garbage collector and paver. Marlee Murphy, who works as a travel agent, entered the duo on the show now in its third series.
They have big shoes to fill as the first House Rules winners South Australian team Carly and Leighton took out the top prize of the high rating renovation show, with their $450,000 mortgage wiped clean. Michelle and Steve from New South Wales were announced runners up in that series. They had wanted their $629,000 mortgage – the biggest mortgage on the show - wiped, but ofcourse they didn’t walk away empty handed with their newly renovated home to be potentially worth $180,000 to $225,000 more. The second series was won by Victoria’s Adam and Lisa who had their $546,000 mortgage paid off.
3) The 2015 Tasmanian House Rules contestants, Cassie and Matt have a $248,000 mortgage, the third smallest on the series. Their affordable, quirky 1960s home is in the Geilston Bay suburb.
4) Brisbane couple Ben and Danielle's mortgage is $405,000. They are the newlywed who bought the Brisbane home four years ago.
5) The $500,000 early 2014 purchase in Reservoir by House Rules contestant couple Bronik and Corrine sits as the priciest of potential prize outlay.
Bronik Davies, who confided that he was the first of his male descendants to own a house, has a $448,000 mortgage which would be wiped if the couple win the renovation competition.
House Rules premiered in May 2013 with the state-versus-state renovation series, from the makers of My Kitchen Rules, aiming to deliver true home renovations as the six contestant couples put their entire home on the line
Host Johanna Griggs expected and got lots of passion and pride in the way teams tackled the renovations.
"It's a bunch of likeable Australians with amazing back stories," <a href="/expert-insights/investing/house-rules-the-new-addictive-reality-television-show-on-the-block-renovates-for-keeps">Griggs advised Property Observer</a> with a "life-changing prize on the line." 
Johanna Griggs, the presenter of Better Homes and Gardens, is herself a keen home renovator, who on launch was building her fourth home with husband, builder Todd Huggins.
"You put your heart, soul, blood, sweat and tears into what you produce and when you realise you’ve done it together it’s an incredibly satisfying and addictive feeling."
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Bronik and Corrine top the five remaining 2015 House Rules mortgage prize contenders

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reiwa.com’s latest preliminary data shows Perth's residential vacancy rate has risen to 4.9 per cent in the past three months to May as the number of properties for lease increased.  This is the highest vacancy rate in six years, after it reached 4.8 per cent in the September quarter of 2009.  There are now 8,147 homes available for tenants, up by almost 600 over the last month. 
Top Suburbs - Available Rentals
Perth 236
East Perth 225
Baldivis 176
Scarborough 167
REIWA President David Airey said the slowdown in Western Australia’s population growth rate had created the oversupply, along with a significant newly constructed dwellings coming to completion.  “The competition among property owners is having an effect on price, with the metropolitan median rent dropping by five dollars on the March quarter to $425 per week, which represents a cut of $25 on the same time last year,” Mr Airey said.  Perth’s median rent peaked at $475 per week in the middle of 2013, but has since fallen by $50, or around 10 per cent, across the board.  “The long term equilibrium for Perth’s vacancy rate is three per cent, so the current situation means there is over 50 per cent more properties on the market than is usual,” Mr Airey said. 
The City of Belmont saw the biggest individual drop, with its local rental median falling from $450 per week to $425 per week between April and May. 
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Perth's highest residential landlord vacancy rate since 2009

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The price growth of regional Victoria remains lethargic when compared to metropolitan Melbourne over the past decade, according to the latest REIV data.
<a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/Property-Research/Median-Prices/~/media/Files/Median%20Prices/2015%20Q1%20Mar/Chart_Mar15medians_Regional.ashx"><img src="https://www.reiv.com.au/Property-Research/Median-Prices/~/media/Files/Median%20Prices/2015%20Q1%20Mar/Chart_Mar15medians_Regional.ashx?h=413&amp;w=700&amp;as=1" alt="" width="700" height="413"></a><a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/Property-Research/Median-Prices/~/media/Files/Median%20Prices/2014%20Q4%20Dec/Chart_Dec14medians_Regional.ashx"></a><a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/Property-Research/Median-Prices/~/media/Files/Median%20Prices/2014%20Q3%20Sep/Chart_Sep14medians_Regional_EMiNcV6J.ashx"></a>
The graph shows median house and unit prices in regional Victoria over the past decade in seasonally adjusted terms.
 
 
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Regional Victorian growth graph highlights gap with Melbourne: REIV

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The Eagle Ridge Golf Course, at 215 Browns Road, Boneo at the entrance to the Mornington Peninsula has been listed for sale.
The 45 hectare property is set about one hour from Melbourne. Two holes in one were scored just last month.
Eagle Ridge Golf Course began as the smaller Carlogie Golf Course until March 1988 when an additional parcel of land was purchased, earthworks commenced and a new Kevin Hartley designed championship course was opened in 1989.
Kevin Hartley was the Australian amateur golf champion of 1958 and runner up to Bruce Devlin in the 1959 Australian Amateur.
He captained the Victorian state team thirteen times, was the leading amateur at three Australian Opens and represented Australia many times, including winning the 1966 Eisenhower Cup team in Mexico.
Hartley based his design vision on Eagle Ridge becoming “the Royal Melbourne of the Mornington Peninsula”.
<div title="Page 1">The ownership of Eagle Ridge transferred to the Russo family in 1995 and, in 1999 Pacific Coast Design was commissioned to design a master plan for course improvements and the new clubhouse opened in 2000. The late Nick Russo was passionate about the business ensuring construction of the functions venue.</div>
Under the management of the golf course superintendent Scott Balloch, the course master plan was completed about 10 years ago.
In 2007 Eagle Ridge closed for a summer to change all fairways to Santa-Ana couch – a more drought tolerant grass with a 45% reduction in water consumption since re-opening.
<div><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CETLYqfW8AAYWS6.jpg" alt="Embedded image permalink" width="640" height="640"></div>
<a href="https://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-vic-boneo-501537999" target="_blank">CBRE</a> has the listing.
 
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Eagle Ridge Golf Course, Boneo listed for sale on Mornington Peninsula

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The REIV has released tables with a summary of Melbourne and Victorian median house prices and rents for the 12 months ending March 2015.
Yields for two bedroom houses.
<table class="t1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Region
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Gross Rental Yield
</td>
<td class="td2" valign="bottom">
 Median Rent
</td>
<td class="td3" valign="bottom">
 Median Price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
Inner
</td>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
3.2%
</td>
<td class="td5" valign="bottom">
$490
</td>
<td class="td6" valign="bottom">
$804,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Middle
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
2.9%
</td>
<td class="td2" valign="bottom">
$345
</td>
<td class="td3" valign="bottom">
$627,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
Outer
</td>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
3.9%
</td>
<td class="td5" valign="bottom">
$300
</td>
<td class="td6" valign="bottom">
$400,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Metro
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
3.0%
</td>
<td class="td2" valign="bottom">
$410
</td>
<td class="td3" valign="bottom">
$700,550
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
Regional
</td>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
5.3%
</td>
<td class="td5" valign="bottom">
$250
</td>
<td class="td6" valign="bottom">
$245,500
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Yields for three bedroom houses
<table class="t1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Region
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Gross Rental Yield
</td>
<td class="td2" valign="bottom">
 Median Rent
</td>
<td class="td3" valign="bottom">
 Median Price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
Inner
</td>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
3.0%
</td>
<td class="td5" valign="bottom">
$580
</td>
<td class="td6" valign="bottom">
$1,005,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Middle
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
3.1%
</td>
<td class="td2" valign="bottom">
$380
</td>
<td class="td3" valign="bottom">
$645,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
Outer
</td>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
4.1%
</td>
<td class="td5" valign="bottom">
$341
</td>
<td class="td6" valign="bottom">
$435,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Metro
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
4.9%
</td>
<td class="td2" valign="bottom">
$290
</td>
<td class="td3" valign="bottom">
$310,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
Regional
</td>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
3.4%
</td>
<td class="td5" valign="bottom">
$380
</td>
<td class="td6" valign="bottom">
$580,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Yields for four bedroom houses 
<table class="t1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Region
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Gross Rental Yield
</td>
<td class="td2" valign="bottom">
 Median Rent
</td>
<td class="td3" valign="bottom">
 Median Price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
Inner
</td>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
2.6%
</td>
<td class="td5" valign="bottom">
$770
</td>
<td class="td6" valign="bottom">
$1,535,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Middle
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
2.9%
</td>
<td class="td2" valign="bottom">
$495
</td>
<td class="td3" valign="bottom">
$886,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
Outer
</td>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
3.7%
</td>
<td class="td5" valign="bottom">
$395
</td>
<td class="td6" valign="bottom">
$560,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
Metro
</td>
<td class="td1" valign="bottom">
3.2%
</td>
<td class="td2" valign="bottom">
$440
</td>
<td class="td3" valign="bottom">
$726,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
Regional
</td>
<td class="td4" valign="bottom">
4.3%
</td>
<td class="td5" valign="bottom">
$350
</td>
<td class="td6" valign="bottom">
$425,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
The REIV has also released tables with a summary of <a href="/expert-insights/buying/melbourne-residential-apartment-investors-yielding-from-3-5-reiv">Melbourne and Victorian median unit prices and rents for the 12 months ending March 2015</a>.
 
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