<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?

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>As Sydney hits winter, the total number of properties listed for sale in Sydney sits at 16,662.</span></p>
<p><span>That is lower than Melbourne (29,014), Brisbane (18,332) and Perth (19,479). </span></p>
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<table>
<colgroup>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Capital city </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>No of new listings </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>12 mth change (%) </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>No of total listings </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>12 mth change (%) </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Sydney </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6,889 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-14.3% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>16,662 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-24.6% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Melbourne </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>7,838 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>2.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>29,014 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-10.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Bris bane </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>4,191 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>0.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>18,322 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-1.7% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Adelaide </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,878 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-11.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>7,637 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-5.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Perth </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>3,857 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-13.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>19,479 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>10.8% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Hobart </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>357 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-19.4% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>2,789 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-11.3% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Darwin </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>266 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>9.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,543 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>33.8% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Canberra </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>489 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-5.4% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,904 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-19.6% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Combined capitals </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>25,765 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-6.8% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>97,350 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-7.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">CoreLogic RP Data report the number of new homes being advertised for sale has fallen over the past week and so too have total listings which have fallen for the fourth successive week.</span></p>
<p><span>A similar trend can be seen across the capital cities where 25,765 new listings hit the market over the past four weeks which is -6.8% lower than at the same time last year.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The number of new listings is lower currently compared to the same time in 2014 across most capital cities. </span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p>Meanwhile, although capital city stock is lower than a year ago, it is being fuelled by a significant decline in listings compared to a year ago in Sydney (-24.6%) and to a lesser degree Canberra (-19.6%), Hobart (-11.3%) and Melbourne (-10.0%). </p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Total listings nationally are 4.8% lower than the number from a year ago while capital city listings are 7.5% lower.</span></p>
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<table>
<colgroup>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>State </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>No of new listings </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>12 mth change (%) </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>No of total listings </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>12 mth change (%) </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>NSW </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>11,336 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-11.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>51,385 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-15.7% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Vic </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>11,169 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>3.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>56,373 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-4.4% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Qld </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>9,720 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-2.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>63,891 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-0.7% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>SA </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>2,700 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-8.6% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>16,706 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-0.3% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>WA </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5,336 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-11.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>33,806 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>2.8% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Tas </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>916 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-13.4% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>10,532 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-3.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>NT </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>360 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>15.8% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>2,074 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>35.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>ACT </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>493 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-6.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,953 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-19.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>National </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>42,030 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-5.3% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>236,720 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>-4.8% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Over the past four weeks there have been 42,030 newly advertised properties added to the market which is -5.3% fewer than at the same time one year ago.</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Sydney's listing shrinkage: winter 2015 update

<html><body>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The Domain Group senior economist Andrew Wilson envisages the RBA could cut interest rates twice before year's end.</span></p>
<p>"If we don't get an improvement they can't justify not cutting again," he said, before yesterday's economic update.</p>
<p><span>Dr Wilson</span><span> said there were not any signs of a housing correction.</span></p>
<p>"We have nothing like the pre-conditions for a sharp fall in house prices," he told Domain.</p>
<p>In the current housing market, he suggested three scenarios that could trigger a dramatic price drop of 5 to 10% in Sydney and Melbourne .</p>
<p>But he reckons none were likely.</p>
<h3><strong><span>Interest rates rapidly increased to 6 per cent</span></strong></h3>
<h3><strong>Unemployment above 10 per cent</strong></h3>
<h3><strong>Australian dollar dropping below US50¢</strong></h3>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">He noted if the Reserve Bank of Australia raised interest rates quickly and by a significant amount, a price crash could follow.</span></p>
<p>But for the Reserve Bank to willingly raise rates from 2% to 6%, economic growth above 5% would need to occur, said Dr Wilson.</p>
<p>"And the only way that will happen is if we have another unbelievable mining boom," he said.</p>
<p>"Even then they might not do it."</p>
<p>Dr Wilson also suggested a dramatic fall in incomes as a result of national unemployment rates increasing to more than 10% would have the potential to cause a collapse.</p>
<p>The third scenario related to currency. </p>
<p>If the Australian dollar dropped below US50 cents, this could also prompt the Reserve Bank to react by hiking interest rates to levels that would cause a correction in the property market, Dr Wilson said.</p>
</body></html>

Two more rate cuts says Domain's Dr Andrew Wilson

<html><body>
<p>The <span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Housing Industry Association chief economist Harley Dale says strong price growth was only evident in Sydney.</span></p>
<p>"Any corrective action by regulators must be very targeted, so as not to adversely affect broader housing demand," Harley Dale suggested.</p>
<p>"Residential building is one of the few bright lights in the economy at the moment, and it would be unwise to interfere in the market to an extent that risks derailing activity."</p>
<p><span>Efforts to boost lending standards in Australian banks' housing portfolios in the last three months were starting to bear fruit, Wayne Byres, the chairman of the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA).</span></p>
<p><span>"This effort has consumed a great deal of our supervisory time over the past three months, but is now starting to bear fruit," Wayne Byres told a senate committee hearing this week.</span></p>
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HIA's Harley Dale says strong growth only in Sydney

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<p><span>A private investor has purchased a 10,384sqm Queanbeyan site for $22.3 million. </span></p>
<p><span>Currently Kmart Queanbeyan take up 5,176sqm and holds a 20 year lease which will continue until 2032.</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p><span>The sale was negotiated by Ben Stewart, Daniel McGrath, Andrew Palmer of Knight Frank, on behalf of vendor LaSalle Funds Management Limited.</span></p>
<p><span>Ben Stewart said the property forms a central presence on the local precinct’s pedestrian circuit.</span></p>
<p><span>"The new Queanbeyan Hospital is located approximately two blocks to the North, with both low and medium density housing located approximately 100 metres away, forming the fringe of the town centre," Mr Stewart said.</span></p>
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Kmart's Queanbeyan site sold 

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<p>Is it a case of banks don’t know what’s going on, or is it more a statement they don’t want to know? Pour yourself a fresh cup of coffee and read on. Don’t forget, your comments are welcomed and be sure to share them.</p>
<p><span>There are three main issues that banks appear to be very silent on and the question that is fitting in this property-climate is simply: “why are they so quiet?” A question which begs a straight answer; especially with the concerns surrounding <em>foreign</em> and <em>local property investors</em> buying newly built property and pricing local first-time-home-buyers out.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>The three concerns and issues I refer to are:</strong></span></p>
<p><span>·</span><span>     </span><span>Rental guarantees</span></p>
<p><span>·</span><span>     </span><span>Overly inflated commissions and</span></p>
<p><span>·</span><span>     </span><span>The scourge of the financial industry sector, selling property without a real estate industry license.</span></p>
<p><span>My immediate guess is, if you are riding the “Gravy Train” of “Overseas &amp; Local Investors” why should these seemingly illegal practices be of concern to banks? Again and for now, I’m just speculating that;<em> it’s best to turn a blind eye than it is to confront what may well be considered unfair and unjust to local home buyers</em>. After all, first-time-home-buyers aren’t the flavor of the month to all concerned, now are they?</span></p>
<p><span>It is my strong belief that the three topics noted, create an unfair advantage that has driven property values sky-high as developers reach for the skies.</span></p>
<p>Why is this unfair? I have previously discussed in other articles, <span>“Rental-Guarantees” and “Overly-Inflated Commissions” are ultimately paid by the investor.</span></p>
<p><span><a href="https://mail.privatemedia.com.au/owa/redir.aspx?SURL=buh8exBazU3bNSloPOr0rrJNNQesJNSotxGFO7YMkRixynWPdWzSCGgAdAB0AHAAOgAvAC8AdwB3AHcALgBsAGkAbgBrAGUAZABpAG4ALgBjAG8AbQAvAHAAdQBsAHMAZQAvAGkAbgB0AGUAcgBuAGEAdABpAG8AbgBhAGwALQBpAG4AdgBlAHMAdABvAHIAcwAtAGIAZQBpAG4AZwAtAGQAdQBwAGUAZAAtAHMAeQBkAG4AZQB5AC0AYQB1AHMAdAByAGEAbABpAGEALQBlAGQAdwBpAG4ALQBhAGwAbQBlAGkAZABhAA..&amp;URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.linkedin.com%2fpulse%2finternational-investors-being-duped-sydney-australia-edwin-almeida"> </a></span><em>Ha! And you thought the developers were generous and paid for these right?</em> Therefore, driving the values of the newly built properties upward.</p>
<p><span>Now allow me to break it down for you.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>Rental guarantees:</strong></span></p>
<p><span>What is common amidst most of the activity surrounding the sales of newly built property is the rental guarantees. Some rental guarantees are lasting for as long as 3 years.</span></p>
<p><span>It is my belief that any incentive made by the vendor or the agent to enhance the sale, the incentive has to be disclosed and must also form part of the contract of sale. The inducement being the rental guarantee but this is not limited to a rental guarantee.</span></p>
<p><span><em>In my time I have also seen cars and furniture packages form part of sales incentives, all in the aim to entice the investor to buy</em>.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>Inflated Commissions:</strong></span></p>
<p><span>Yes, I know I speak out a lot about this very subject</span><span> but when spruikers earn 5 times what the local agent earns in one sale, there has to be something wrong. If I don’t speak out, will the REI NSW step in or any of the REI’s for that matter?</span></p>
<p><span><em>I stopped holding that breath 4 years ago</em>.</span></p>
<p><span>Nevertheless, the banking bodies should take note as their clients (the investors) are ultimately paying for this.</span></p>
<p><span>I also note that most of my endeared friends that have created this negative impact on the local home front, all sell newly built property. An arena where highly inflated commissions can and are paid out.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>Selling without an industry license:</strong></span></p>
<p><span>The temptation is just too great and the grass is greener on the other side.</span><span> When so much money is at stake we have seen; brokers, accountants, financial planners and advisers jump the fence to moonlight as real estate agents as they lead their clients astray.</span></p>
<p><span>Again, this is an area where the banks should focus on, as local investors fall prey to the rogues within the financial sector.</span></p>
<p><span>A closer eye and perhaps a magnifying glass should be used to review contracts especially when the buyers are: Trustee Companies for Self-Managed-Super-Fund (SMSF) Trusts. More to the point when the property is new as this is the territory where these rogues, feast and boast about the high commissions earned.</span></p>
<p>Rental guarantees, overly inflated commissions and spruikers selling real estate without a license under the guise of calling themselves property-marketers: should send alarm bells ringing through the banking sector. But once more, why is there so much silence surrounding the very issues that have overly inflated the value of a new property in Sydney?</p>
<p><span><strong>Getting to the nuts and bolts</strong></span></p>
<p><span>Unethical real estate agents, spruikers, property marketing companies and the scourge of the financial sector; all have been ensnared by the prize of the high commissions and in turn lure investors by creating false perceptions of property: growth, demand, under-supply and high return on investment. How? By the simple use of instruments (such as rental guarantees) outside of the contract of sale and therefore, making the transaction questionable and unconscionable.</span></p>
<p><span>The falsely represented, high priced, new property sales ultimately filters down to established homes and we have what I refer to as “property-osmosis”. Property osmosis is an upward pull of established property's prices, caused by the exaggerated values of the surrounding new developments.</span></p>
<p><span>Most people are also under the impression that Overseas-Investors are paying for their properties with 100% cash. However, that it is not the case. Most investors buy property with a high deposit and borrow 50-60% through a loan vehicle.</span></p>
<p><span>In actual fact, Chinese citizens can only take up to $50,000 out of China through legal channels. However, there are means and ways to take $200K-$400K without much fuss.</span></p>
<p><span>Therefore, banks are more than happy to lend at 60% Loan to Value Ratios, as they are well secured even if the market dips by 20-30%. As you can see, there is very little risk for the banks.</span></p>
<p><span>Then there are our home grown Local-Investors that have been enticed to buy. Their property investment guides as previously mentioned are mainly, property spruikers and financial experts that assist in creating (SMSF) schemes to buy property. These vehicles also requiring low LVRs to purchase.</span></p>
<p><span>Typically, the SMSF schemes may borrow 70-80% to buy the investment property. Again the banking sector feeling secure on all counts.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>What banks and Industry bodies need to do</strong></span></p>
<p><span>The first and foremost prudent demand banks should place on the real estate industry is, for the “Sales Inspection Report and Agency Agreement” to be disclosed. Disclosure of what the “AGENCY” is being rewarded for the sale, will provide a twofold and strong indication to the valuer if there are any hidden agreements not being revealed.</span></p>
<p><span>·</span><span>     </span><span>Overinflated commissions</span></p>
<p><span>·</span><span>     </span><span>Payments made to agent/agency to cover rental guarantees and other incentives not disclosed in the Contract of Sale, which are passed on to the investor.</span></p>
<p><span>A copy of the agency/corporation license, should also accompany the contract of sale when providing the relevant documentation to the valuers. For the bank valuers to properly asses the true value of the property.</span></p>
<p><span>·</span><span>     </span><span>An agency or business name on the front page of the contract inserted after "Vendor's Agent" does not represent that the agent holds an industry license.</span></p>
<p><span>Perhaps at this very moment there is simply too much at stake to curve these questionable practices. The banks, financial institutions, real estate agents and we may also include the government, are all making too much money on this gravy train, to really care about our local first home buyers.</span></p>
<p><span>I am troubled nonetheless to think that all these practices that may be considered highly questionable if not illegal, have and continue to go on and right under the very noses of the banking institutions.</span></p>
<p><em><span>EDWIN ALMEIDA</span> is licensee in charge of <a href="https://www.just-think.com.au/" target="_blank">Just Think Real Estate</a>.<a href="https://www.just-thin.com.au/"><br></a></em></p>
<p><em>He is also the creator of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/JustThinkProperty" target="_blank">Oz Real Estate.TV</a> and a presenter for <a href="https://propertyinvestingvault.com/" target="_blank">propertyinvestingvault.com</a>.</em></p>
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ealmedia-arK4DBYLjS

Banks turning a blind eye: Edwin Almeida

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<p><span>Fair Trading NSW</span><span> has warned consumers not to deal with an unlicensed agent,</span><span> Peter Franklin Atherton, who is based in the New South Wales town of Goulburn.</span></p>
<p><span>The Commissioner for Fair Trading Rod Stowe exposed his business, Franklin Real Estate Pty Ltd trading as ‘The Country Specialist’ following a recent consumer complaint.</span></p>
<p><span>He had 60 plus reported sales and 60 plus listings on his now inactive website. </span></p>
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<div class="footer"><a class="agentLogo bottom" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/buy/by-xohcpu/list-1"><img src="https://i3.au.reastatic.net/agencylogo/XOHCPU/12/20110826125318.gif" alt="Franklin Real Estate - Goulburn" title="view all properties from Franklin Real Estate - Goulburn" width="170" height="32"></a></div>
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<p>"Fair Trading established Mr Atherton does not hold a licence to act as a real estate agent and the company Franklin Real Estate Pty Ltd trading as ‘The Country Specialist’ is not registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).<br><br>"Mr Atherton has not produced any of his accounts to Fair Trading for examination and, as he conducts business solely on the internet, Fair Trading has been unable to carry out normal auditing of his business affairs.<br><br>"In November 2014 Fair Trading issued Mr Atherton with a $2200 penalty infringement notice for an offence under section 9 the Property, Stock and Business Agents Act 2002, which requires a corporation to be licensed.<br><br>"Despite being told it is illegal to trade as a real estate agent while not being the holder of the appropriate licence, Mr Atherton continues to display properties for sale on his website ‘Franklin Real Estate – The Country Specialist’."</p>
<p><br>Fair Trading commenced action to permanently close down Mr Atherton’s website (www.franklinrealestate.com.au).<br><br>"Any person who currently has a property listed with Mr Atherton or Franklin Real Estate – The Country Specialist is urged to relist the property with a properly licensed real estate agent.<br><br>"Any person who has had dealings with Mr Franklin should lodge an online complaint with Fair Trading at www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au or call 13 32 20., has been operating without a licence," Mr Stowe said.</p>
<p>His website suggested Peter is the Principal and Sales Agent of Franklin Real Estate, 'The Country Specialists' based in Goulburn, NSW. </p>
<p>"If you are looking for land, whether it is a farm, acres large or small, a weekender, a rural retreat, a beautiful homestead or simply a cottage in the country Peter is the man to talk to. </p>
<p>"His passion is assisting people realise their dream in owning a home or land in country NSW. </p>
<p>"Having lived on the land and worked in the property market for more than 25 years Peter has expert knowledge of all types of farms and acreage. </p>
<p>"He has assisted many property owners in their sub divisions and provides a consultancy service in this field."</p>
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Goulburn agent warning from Fair Trading NSW

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<p><span>The Singaporean construction company Lian Beng has emerged as the buyer of Newspaper House, on Collins Street, Melbourne.</span></p>
<p><span>It sold recently for around $24.9 million. <span>Established in 1973, </span><span>Lian Beng</span><span> Group is one of </span><span>Singapore's</span><span> major home-grown building </span><span>construction</span><span> groups with integrated civil engineering division. It is headed by </span></span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Ong Pang Aik.</span></p>
<p>The historic Newspaper House, at 247 Collins Street, Melbourne<span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> comes with mosaic mural on its front facade designed by Napier Waller in 1932.</span></p>
<p>Mervyn Napier Waller's "I'll put a girdle about the earth" features heroic human figures appear among scenes of commerce, construction and communication.</p>
<p>There's lots of gold, an echo of the Byzantine era, in the 1933 commission by Sir Keith Murdoch from the Herald &amp; Weekly Times who needed more than their empire on Flinders Street.</p>
<p><img class="img-responsive" src="/images/2015/05/08/700_mural.jpg" alt="Newspaper House, Collins Street under offer"></p>
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<span>It was the former WH Rocke Ltd building on a 478 square metre holding. </span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The purchaser was considering both leasing and subdivision plans for the building.</span>
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<div class="row article-content"><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The ground floor of 247 Collins Street had been previously leased to the House of Cashmere, and the upper levels to Sydney International College.  </span></div>
<p><strong>HIDDEN TREASURES OF NAPIER WALLER</strong></p>
<p>1926-27 MURALS Melbourne Town Hall, Swanston Street.</p>
<p>1927 MURAL Menzies Hotel, cnr Bourke and William streets (building demolished in 1969, mural sold privately).</p>
<p>1928 MURAL Better Than to Squander Life's Gifts Is to Conserve Them and Ensure a Fearless Future T&amp;G Life Building entry foyer, cnr Collins and Russell streets.</p>
<p>1928 MURAL Peace After Victory State Library of Victoria, first-floor landing near La Trobe Reading Room, cnr, Swanston and La Trobe street.</p>
<p>1933 MOSAIC I'll Put a Girdle Round the Earth Newspaper House facade, 247 Collins Street.</p>
<p>1934 FLORENTINE MURALS Florentino Restaurant, now Grossi Florentino, first floor, 80 Bourke Street.</p>
<p>1935 STAINED GLASS WINDOW Wesley Church, Pioneers window, upper gallery, north wall, 148 Lonsdale Street.</p>
<p>1935 STAINED GLASS WINDOW Ian Potter Museum foyer, Swanston Street on university campus. (Designed for Wilson Hall, University of Melbourne, which was destroyed by fire in 1951. Window was retrieved from the ruins.)</p>
<p>1935 MUIRALS Myer Melbourne Mural Hall dining room, sixth floor, 314 Bourke Street.</p>
<p>1937 STAINED GLASS Orchid Window University of Melbourne Botany School.</p>
<p>1940 MURAL Australian Symbolic Figures University of Melbourne Achitecture, Building and Planning Library (Orginally on display at Royal Insurance Company, 414-418 Collins Street, but donated to university after building was demolished in 1969.)</p>
<p>1963 MOSAIC The Eight Aboriginal Tribal Headmen Temple Court foyer, 422 Collins Street.</p>
<p>1967 MOSAIC Prometheus Monash House foyer, 15 William Street.</p>
<p>List Source: <em>Fairfax Media</em></p>
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Lian Beng buys Newspaper House, Melbourne's iconic Collins Street retail holding

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<p><span>Origin Energy chief executive Grant King and his wife Jenny have a $1.7 million price on their redundant Pittwater retreat.</span></p>
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<p>The Neutral Bay couple now own a pricier Palm Beach beachfront. </p>
<p><a href="https://palmbeach.ljhooker.com.au/33MF6Z/11-coasters-retreat-coasters-retreat" target="_blank">The waterfront reserve Coasters Retreat cottage </a>was bought in 1995 for $307,500 before its extensive renovation and extension. </p>
<p><span>Accessed only by boat or a regular ferry service from Palm Beach, Noel Nicholson, of LJ Hooker Palm Beach, has the listing.</span></p>
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Waterfront Pittwater retreat listed 

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<p>Treasurer Joe Hockey has dismissed his department's concerns about a housing bubble in Sydney and parts of Melbourne.</p>
<p>He suggests the issue was one of housing supply and market forces would sort it out.</p>
<p>The Treasurer said he saw no need for more regulation above the current high profile role of APRA.</p>
<p>"If there is a concern about elevated house prices, Sydney or parts of Melbourne, then the best way to respond is with increased supply," he said.</p>
<p>Mr Hockey said Wednesday's quarterly national accounts figures had clear evidence of a significant increase in housing supply.</p>
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<div>"So the market is responding," The Australian Financial Review reported.</div>
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<p>The issue was prompted after Mr Hockey's top economic adviser, Treasury Secretary John Fraser, told a Senate committee this week that house prices in Sydney and parts of Melbourne were "unequivocally" in a bubble.</p>
<p>Treasurer Joe Hockey insists increasing residential construction is the best way to respond to concerns about a housing bubble.</p>
<p>"You've go to get the stock up," he told ABC Radio on Thursday, citing figures showing an 18 per cent increase in the number of construction starts in 2014.</p>
<p>Mr Hockey said the global experience was that bubbles only happened when supply exceeded demand and that was not the case in Australia.</p>
<p>"You have particular troubles in markets where supply exceeds demand - exhibit A, China; exhibit B, Ireland; exhibit C, the US," he told reporters.</p>
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Supply is on the way as Treasurer Joe Hockey says there is no housing bubble

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<p>Tony Abbott is absolutely right. There’s something I never imagined I would ever say, but the Prime Minister is spot on with his comments this week about house prices. He said on Monday he thought rising house prices were a good thing.</p>
<p>He sought to make his comments as a home-owner at Forestville in the northern beaches area of Sydney, as well as the nation’s Prime Minister.</p>
<p>The Federal Government has got a lot wrong on real estate, with its pointless inquiries and its equally pointless targeting of foreign investors in a sabre-rattling attempt to be seen to be taking strong action.</p>
<p>But Abbott was right on the mark about house prices. It’s long overdue for someone in authority to make the point that for people who own homes, which means the vast majority of Australian households, rising property values are a good thing. </p>
<p>They’re also a good thing for the nation.</p>
<p>For way too long, mainstream media has characterised any rise in house prices as a national crisis. It’s been the dominant tone in newspapers since the start of the century, which began with a genuine national property boom from 2001 to 2003, and it’s reached the point of absurdity more recently with coverage of the Claytons boom centred on Sydney.</p>
<p>Media has also lost all sense of balance with its treatment of the affordability issue. They’ve turned first-home buyers into a kind of protected species, to be fussed over to the exclusion of everyone else, including the seven out of 10 households who own their homes and want their values to rise.</p>
<p>Here’s what the Prime Minister said on Monday: “This government is trying to make housing more available, we’ve tried to make housing more affordable, and the best way to make housing more affordable is to keep interest rates low and stable and that’s exactly what’s happening and trying to make sure the economy is strong.</p>
<p>“As someone who, along with a bank, owns a house in Sydney I do hope that our housing prices are increasing. I do want housing to be affordable, but nevertheless I also want house prices to be modestly increasing."</p>
<p>That’s probably the only time in his reign that Abbott has spoken on behalf of most Australians.</p>
<p>Notwithstanding the misinformation that often describes our housing as the most expensive in the world - and the fuzzy logic that has turned the current up-cycle in Sydney into a national bubble - Australia continues to have one of the world’s highest home ownership rates. Most home-owners with mortgages are ahead on their repayments, while mortgage delinquencies are at record lows. These facts suggest a market that’s healthy and sustainable.<span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p>Most of us want property values to rise – and so does the nation. We’re all tasked with the challenge of providing for our retirement years amid a rapidly ageing population and a fragile Budget.<span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p>That demands that we invest and grow our assets. For many, the cornerstone of the process is the family home and its value.</p>
<p>So the Prime Minister leads the nation in wanting prices to rise across Australia. The problem is, they’re not.</p>
<p>The latest research figures suggest house values are going backwards in Darwin and Hobart, stagnating in Perth and rising only marginally in Canberra, Brisbane and Adelaide. Sydney, up 16%, has the only boom housing market.</p>
<p>Apartments markets are falling in Perth, Hobart, Canberra and Darwin, and there’s no meaningful growth in Brisbane or Adelaide. Melbourne is up only 3%. Even Sydney’s rise of 8.8% is quite moderate.</p>
<p>There’s nothing in those figures to support the notion of a bubble, nor the bleating of those who claim an affordability crisis, in contradiction of the situation described by the affordability indexes.</p>
<p>It says something about the state of journalism in Australia when the Prime Minister can generate a media storm by commenting that rising property values are a good thing.</p>
<p><em>TERRY RYDER is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a></em></p>
<p>Terry is presenting a free webinar with Property Observer editor at large Jonathan Chancellor on Tuesday June 16 at 12.30pm titled on why research is the key to successful property investing in 2015. Sign up here.</p>
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