Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Joel Robinson

Brisbane's next apartment price record? Pikos unveils Skye's exclusive penthouse collection

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

A proposal to redevelop one of North Sydney's ageing commercial buildings has taken another step forward, with plans for a 38-storey mixed-use tower adding momentum to the long-awaited transformation of the Alfred Street precinct.

Now on public exhibition through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority-led State Significant Development pathway, the proposal for 271-273 Alfred Street would replace an underutilised commercial building with 95 apartments, ground-floor retail, commercial space and affordable housing. The proposal was submitted by&nbsp;Tara Shore Pty Ltd, acting for the John Taylor Family Trust.

While the project will deliver much-needed housing on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, it also represents another piece of a broader precinct that has spent years in planning limbo.

<img alt="First look: New public domain vision underpins 95-apartment North Sydney tower on Alfred Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e1ce1b4-38df-48ab-992f-386814d86308" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Alfred%20St%20da%20podium.png?VersionId=sC_h6w.A9VEoB98qsqowPlIoz__sBZBt" />

Despite its proximity to both North Sydney Station and the Victoria Cross Metro, redevelopment of Alfred Street has progressed slowly over the past decade as broader planning controls, zoning and building heights remained unresolved. The introduction of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway has provided a new avenue for projects to progress, allowing rezoning and development assessment to occur concurrently and unlocking sites that have long been earmarked for renewal.

Designed by Office of Cortese &amp; Gilder, the proposal seeks to do more than replace an ageing office building. The architects have positioned the project as the first stage of a wider public domain vision that would improve pedestrian connectivity and create a more cohesive mixed-use precinct as neighbouring sites are redeveloped over time.

The proposal includes a widened Alfred Street setback, new street trees, landscaping and outdoor seating, along with a landscaped through-site pedestrian link connecting Alfred Street with Little Alfred Street. The connection is intended to become the first section of a future east-west pedestrian network extending across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: New public domain vision underpins 95-apartment North Sydney tower on Alfred Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ea39ac3-46ad-4562-b4a0-b862e91c2dda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Alfred%20St%20da%20site.png?VersionId=K7umCd21KpetEFuVfsPlnJKhUOsmTTdV" />

The mixed-use tower would comprise retail space at ground level, commercial uses on level two and apartments from level three upwards.

In total, the development would deliver 95 apartments, including nine one-bedroom, 28 two-bedroom, 56 three-bedroom and two four-bedroom residences. Twenty-one apartments, representing 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area, would be secured as affordable housing and managed by a registered community housing provider for at least 15 years.

Nine basement levels would provide 133 resident car spaces, seven motorcycle spaces and 111 bicycle spaces.

According to the Architecture and Urban Design Report, the public domain strategy is designed to transform what is currently an inward-facing commercial edge into a more active and connected pedestrian environment, creating a stronger relationship between the commercial core and surrounding residential neighbourhoods.

Office of Cortese &amp; Gilder has also prepared a broader public domain framework spanning neighbouring properties between 263 and 283 Alfred Street, arguing that a coordinated approach to redevelopment will deliver better public spaces, improved tower separation and a more connected streetscape as the precinct evolves.

The proposal comes at a time where North Sydney is slated for future residential growth. Commercial developer FiveX has residential plans for the neighbouring site at 275 Alfred Street. They've proposed a 39-storey mixed-use tower with 184 apartments, while Freecity was recently approved for nearly 300 apartments across a 51-storey building on Walker Street.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-freecity-gets-green-light-for-mixed-use-apartment-and-hotel-tower-in-north-sydney">First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-plans-39-storey-residential-tower-in-booming-north-sydney">First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower in booming North Sydney</a>

&nbsp;

Alfred Street the latest North Sydney pocket to be transformed by residential development

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]

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 

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>

&nbsp;

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?

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

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Two heritage-listed office buildings at the Paris end of Collins Street, Melbourne have been listed for sale through Savills agent Clinton Baxter.
At 10-12 Collins Street, the five storey Victor Horsley Chambers, dates back to 1924.
The Georgian Revival building offers retail and office space.
Next door at 14-16 Collins Street is the five storey 1912 Chanonry office building.
Victor Horsley Chambers traded at $900,000 in 1971.
Chanonry last traded for $300,000 in 1971.
Both buildings, owned by private investors, are in the same block as the Melbourne Club.
They both have redevelopment potential.
"This is the ultimate location for property ownership within Melbourne, quite possibly Australia, with most properties being exceedingly tightly-held and often owned for generations," said Savills' Clinton Baxter, who is handling the properties with colleague Nick Peden.
The offering of two neighbouring office buildings at the prestigious Paris end of Collins Street in Melbourne’s CBD, could fetch a combined $35 million or more.
All leases are subject to six month termination clauses, providing the successful purchasers with a range of options which may include refurbishment, repositioning, owner-occupation or total redevelopment of the properties
Offers close with Savills 28 May.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Two Paris end of Collins Street office offerings

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The 129-131 Parramatta Road, Concord development site has been given a $4.2 million asking price having failed to sell at is scheduled 16 April auction.
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-concord-501497303" target="_blank">There is approval for 16 units</a> for the shop-top site set 500 from Strathfield Station.
JLL agents Blair Peterken and Dylan McEvoy have the listing. Some 90% of the apartments will be two bedrooms.
The site was consolidated in 2013 at a $1.6 million cost. 
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Parramatta Road, Concord residential development site offering

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A Ritchies Supa IGA Supermarket in Taree sold recently to a Sydney eastern suburbs family for $7.82 million.
It reflected a 7% yield – possibly a record for a regional NSW supermarket, according to the Burgess Rawson selling agency.
It is leased to 2027 with options to 2047 guaranteed by ASX listed Metcash. With a building area of 3,126 square metres, it is adjacent to a council owned car park.
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-taree-501490027" target="_blank">Its net income </a>is $545,939 per annum plus GST.
The same vendor secured $1.9 million for the adjacent Manning Street retail space rented to the Reject Shop.
It was a building area of 1,000 square metres with a net income of $145,880 per annum plus GST.
The two holding sold at $6 million in 2013 when JRDM Pty Ltd bought from Morgan &amp; Griffin Pty Ltd.
In 2013 fund manager Moss Capital, run by former Macquarie Bank director Bill Moss, acquired the Manning Mall in Taree from Mirvac for $32.6 million.
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/moss-capital-plans-more-shopping-centre-acquisitions-after-32-6m-manning-mall-taree-purchase">The sub-regional shopping centre</a> in the Mid North Coast NSW town has 11,300 square metres of retail space, anchored by Target and Coles.
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Taree IGA sells at $7.82 million

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How hot will it go?
Fire &amp; Rescue NSW have listed their former fire station, 259 Cabramatta Road, Cabramatta for sale at 2 May auction.
The district's first Fire Brigade was established at Cabramatta in January 1928 as Brigade Number 49 on Railway Parade.
The station was also known as Cabramatta-Canley Vale with the first permanent staff were appointed to the station in 1955. 
Cabramatta Fire Station was incorporated into the Sydney Fire Department in 1959. 
A new station was established in 1969 on West Cabramatta Road.
In 2000, Cabramatta Fire Station was located at 259 Cabramatta Road in West Cabramatta.
There's nothing flash about the firestation, so will be <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-cabramatta-501513403" target="_blank">a knock down </a><a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-cabramatta-501513403" target="_blank">development</a><a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-cabramatta-501513403" target="_blank"> site </a>opportunity when sold by Colliers agent Harry Bui.
The 613 square metre site is located on the northern (eastbound) side of Cabramatta Road at the junction of Hill Street approximately 500 metres from Cabramatta Train Station and adjacent to the Public Council Car Park at the rear.
It is zoned B4 Mixed Use allowing retail, commercial and residential. There is a floor Space Ratio (FSR) 1.5:1 with maximum height limit of 10 metres.
His locals sales have included the BKK Shopping Centre for $20 million and the Cabramatta City Centre for $18.1 million.
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Former Cabramatta fire station to test development market heat

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The first thing you need to do is come up with some creative ways to address this and still maintain your sanity, at the same time.
But no matter what your approach may be, there are several things you always need to do.
1. Secure (or compile) a Target List of Potential Tenants
<ul>
<li>This may be by geography (ie: businesses located in the surrounding area); or</li>
<li>It may be by business category (ie: types of businesses you feel your property would ideally suit).</li>
</ul>
The geographical approach is best suited to industrial property.
In which case, you simply get in your car and drive around the nearby streets — noting down the firms who occupy premises of roughly the same size as yours.
But what about the list by business category?
No matter how old-fashioned as this may sound, you will find it best to start with a hard copy of Yellow Pages.
Using your category list, you look up those specific business types located in and around where your property is located.
Exactly how many categories (and how far you spread from your property) is up to you. However, I would probably be suggesting eight to 10 business categories; and maybe as far away as 5 kilometres.
In any event, you should be looking to come up with a list of around 300 firms to call. That way (and based upon my 2% success rate), you should then end up with between five or six potential starters.
2. WHO is the Key Person you should speak to?
Interestingly, it's not always the CEO. Sometimes it will be the office manager; other times, maybe the financial controller.
You may need to have someone else call up beforehand, to establish exactly who the decision-maker is so that you can ask to be put through to that person, when you call.
Now you've compiled your list of target firms to contact and identified the key people involved, you may find it helpful to actually role-play a couple of very successful tele-scripts.
Bottom line: Hopefully, this has gives you a few fresh insights into just how easy it is for you to make your cold calls and be successful — whenever you have a vacancy, even in a tough market.
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chrislang-EQKojcgJPV

What can you do when your tenant leaves? Chris Lang

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The government's claim that increasing home prices are due to an underlying imbalance in demand and supply is not true, according to a new report.
LF Economics' Housing Supply in Australia report draws a parallel between Australia's current market and the United States property market before the global financial crisis. The report's author, Lindsay David, writes that the American housing bubble was "blamed on a phantom shortage", which was proven untrue after the market crashed. Instead, writes David, there was actually a "massive oversupply of houses in the market".
"Every country that has suffered through a housing cycle in recent years had so-called experts claiming capital prices were based upon fundamental factors of supply and demand," reads the report.
"Unfortunately, economists considered these housing price booms to be efficiently based, so there was no need to actually test for a shortage – they are considered to exist by definition."
According to the report, Victoria is of "particular concern", with the greatest rise in housing prices but also the "largest cumulative oversupply of dwellings at 123,000" – three years' worth of excess supply.
<img src="/images/2015/04/22/soos-april-22-one.jpg" alt="">
The report determined that to cope with its growing population, between 1996 and 2014, Australia should have required a new dwelling for every 2.6 new residents. The LF Dwelling Supply Index compares the amount of new housing supply to the influx of new residents.
<img src="/images/2015/04/22/soos-april-22-two.jpg" alt="">
According to the report, while there have been some periods of undersupply, from 1996 to 2006, there was an oversupply of housing in Australia.
David attributes the surplus period between 2007 and 2009 to the global financial crisis, which lead to a moderation in construction while population growth increased.
"A deficit existed between 2011 and 2013, again moving into surplus as population growth has again slowed and another boom in dwelling construction has taken hold, especially in the capital city apartment markets," David writes.
"Given the uptick in dwelling completions and residential projects in the pipeline, a surplus appears likely for the next several quarters."
The report concluded that there is no connection between housing prices and the rise in home prices recorded since 1996.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

"Housing shortage is a myth": Report

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Australia's most expensive residential land market is the Richmond-Tweed region in New South Wales.
The latest HIA-CoreLogic RP Data Residential Land Report provided by the Housing Industry Association and CoreLogic RP Data, signals a growing divide between demand and available supply in vacant residential land.
“The number of residential land sales fell by 11.8% over the year to the December 2014 quarter,” said HIA chief economist, Harley Dale.
“In contrast, the weighted median residential land value increased by 2.8% in the December 2014 quarter to be up by 6.3% over the year.
“The increase in the weighted median value was driven primarily by Sydney, with significant growth also evident for Perth and Melbourne. As with all aspects of this housing cycle, there are wide divergences in land market conditions around the country – this is clearly evident across the six capital cities and 41 regional areas covered in the Residential Land Report.
“There is insufficient shovel-ready land in some markets and this is placing undue upward pressure on residential land values. Construction of detached houses looks to be peaking for the cycle, but there is unrealised demand out there because of that lack of readily available and affordable land."
According to CoreLogic RP Data research director, Tim Lawless, the number of vacant residential land sales has been trending lower since mid-2013 and concurrently, median land prices have been rising to new record highs.
“The opposing trends are a clear sign that demand is outweighing supply which is pushing land prices higher.
"Higher land prices ultimately lead to less affordable homes - it is the high cost of vacant land which significantly contributes to the increasing cost of housing.
"Ideally we should be seeing more land brought to the market and sold during this period of low borrowing costs.” 
<img src="/images/2015/04/21/hia-april-21-one.jpg" alt="">
Australia's least expensive land markets can be found in the South East region of South Australia, and the Mersey-Lyell and Southern regions of Tasmania.
<img src="/images/2015/04/21/hia-april-21-two.jpg" alt="">
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Australia's most expensive (and cheapest) regional land markets

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Grimes Cottage, at 50 Argyle Place in Millers Point, has been listed by the NSW government.
It is reportedly set to fetch more than $4 million at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-millers+point-119602867" target="_blank">its 21 May auction</a>.
The Colonial Georgian freestanding home comes with six bedrooms, north-facing garden, along with a self-contained studio flat.
There are views of the Harbour Bridge and The Rocks from its rear verandah.
Set on 416 square metres, the 1830s home was dubbed by the Australian Financial Review as a "jewel" within the social housing portfolio in the area.
McGrath agent Richard Shalhoub holds the listing.
To date, Government Property NSW has sold 12 out of the 293 properties that were used as government housing, fetching around $26.8 million.
The terraces along Kent Street, Argyle Place, Windmill Street and Lower Fort Street have fetched between $1.624 million and $3.95 million.
Minister for Family and Community Services, Brad Hazzard, recently announced that the money made from the sales had gone towards building 10 new two-bedroom seniors living dwellings in Lurnea in Sydney’s south west. 
The sales campaign, which is expected to generate more than $500 million for new housing projects outside the city,<a href="/news/nsw/millers-point-state-government-terrace-sell-off-resumes-post-election"> resumed </a><a href="/news/nsw/millers-point-state-government-terrace-sell-off-resumes-post-election">earlier</a><a href="/news/nsw/millers-point-state-government-terrace-sell-off-resumes-post-election"> this week</a> after the state election.
Grimes Cottage was built by whaler Charles Grimes who built a row of early 1840s terraces depicted in artist Conrad Marten’s work in 1843. 
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Grimes Cottage, Millers Point listed by NSW state government

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The internet has become a fascinating tool; it’s revolutionised how we do business today but it has also caught many governments off guard. Not to mention made them more accountable as strange as that may sound. 
For example, I have been for some time now mystified about how Australia’s house market continues to soar with Sydney prices up nearly 15% just in the past 12 months. Our unemployment rate sits at 6.1% which is the highest rate (or thereabouts) for 13 years, where of all developing countries Australia’s is the only rate increasing. And real wage growth is now at the weakest level for two decades.
Deutsche Bank has just released its fourth annual Mapping the World’s Prices report and for the fourth year in a row Australia sits at the top of the list for being the most expensive. Yes Australia is now into its 24th year of uninterrupted growth – a feat no other developed country has been able to replicate. It must have been release week as the International Monetary Fund also produced its World Economic Outlook which has economic growth still on target at 2.8% for 2015. Before we get too excited they also thought that Greece will be the strongest Eurozone economy over the next few years too.
Whilst businesses and individuals have been using and adapting this online phenomenon the same can’t be said for a government, the best case at hand is that they have no idea just who is buying Australian real estate. In 2014, I and others started writing and probing this actual point about foreign investors in Australia. This brought the treasurer Joe Hockey on 19 March 2014 to announce an inquiry and report on ‘Australia’s foreign investment policy as it applies to residential real estate’. 12 months on nothing has actually happened so it would appear that such a debate might be construed as not being politically correct. Treasurer Hockey did announce to all and sundry that he had sought a divestiture order on the $39 million sale of Villa del Mare in Point Piper – although despite claims of more to come no announcements have been made. One might think that the backlash of sentiment coming from Asia may have seen these forensic investigations put on the back-burner?
Let’s face it – Australia is one very popular destination especially when you look back at what Philip Ruddock as Immigration Minister had to say in a speech back in 2000. Back then official projections suggested that Australia’s population would reach 24 million by 2050. Just 15 years later those population targets have almost been met with the latest projections having our population as now likely to be 40 million by 2050.
I read a report recently that the Master Builders of Australia estimated that overseas buyers make up approximately 5 to 6% of Australia’s housing market. The Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) figures show for the year from July 2013, $24.8 billion in foreign investment was approved, 44% higher than the previous year.
It’s now common knowledge that the FIRB have failed miserably in their assigned duties. The problem we have is twofold. Firstly, the government has no way of precisely knowing exactly how many properties are being acquired by foreign investors – I would suggest that realistic estimations should be more than double what the FIRB are suggesting. The only way to know for sure would be to extrapolate the stamp duty data and then run that through the Australian Taxation Office data – and we all know that won’t be happening anytime soon.
Secondly the big property market mover in Sydney especially is the rezoning of high – density residential land into new developments. Previously this was a domain dominated by Australian developers who now can’t compete with the Asian developers. Given that it’s legal to buy new off the plan, these developments are then re-sold exclusively in Asia.
So what we are clearly seeing is the Asian property developers paying much more for the sites given the apartments can be sold for much more to overseas buyers – who are using the buying off the plan incentives to buy Australian real estate which is totally legal.
 When we dart back to populations we see that as of 1 January 2015, the population of China was estimated to be 1,370,811,348 people which is a bit more than our 23,790,582 as at 30 September 2014.
Maybe our federal government could lower our unemployment rate by employing some computer programmers’ to extrapolate all the countries’ stamp duty data and then cross pollinate that with Australian Tax Office data and create their (as promised) National Property Register?
<a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/files/2015/04/16-04-2015-12-10-09-PM.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-466586" src="https://www.rwm.com.au/files/2015/04/16-04-2015-12-10-09-PM.jpg" alt="16-04-2015 12-10-09 PM" width="614" height="324"></a>
<a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/files/2015/04/16-04-2015-12-10-48-PM.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-466587" src="https://www.rwm.com.au/files/2015/04/16-04-2015-12-10-48-PM.jpg" alt="16-04-2015 12-10-48 PM" width="616" height="324"></a>
Then again I’m probably spending way too much time on my computer and simply imagining what is happening to Australian residential property prices!
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robertsimeon-hRNTwJyXkQ

Hold on, what’s going on here? Robert Simeon

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Crown Group has revealed details of its $88-million residential tower, Crown Ashfield with design by architects Turner.
Located on Liverpool Road, the nine-storey development comprises 79 boutique apartments, plus four retail spaces, resident and visitors’ car parking, grand lobby lounge, theatrette, piano room and rooftop communal facilities including a terrace and a recreational area with spectacular city views.
Sales are set to begin on 23 May with the luxury development due for completion in mid-2016.
<img src="/images/2015/04/22/Crown%20Ashfield%20Interior%20%20-%20Dark.jpg" alt="">   Crown Group chief executive Iwan Sunito said Crown Ashfield will feature a forest interior concept along with the development’s internal atrium.
"The common areas will be bathed in natural light, lush greenery and first-class residents’ amenities," Sunito said.
Nicholas Turner, said Crown Ashfield’s design, took the metaphor of the tree to express the verticality of the facade screening and dramatic floating roof and also reference the natural, serene materials within the building.
“As one transitions from the street into the main foyer of the building, an unexpected experience of great surprise will be created through the revealing of an urban sanctuary; timber cladding, a reflection pool, planting all beneath a dynamic atrium space extending up to the roof," Turner said.
“Shafts of daylight will fill this foyer and an urban oasis is created."
<img src="/images/2015/04/22/150421%20-%20Crown%20Ashfield%20-%20Roof%20-%20Final%20-%202000.jpg" alt="">
There will be a residents’ lounge, piano room and theatrette.
Crown Group project sales manager Anthony Falas said there was a growing demand for high-end apartments in Ashfield.
Crown Group has not finalised pricing for the apartments, but Crown Group's Anthony Falas told The Australian Financial Review the company is looking at the starting mark of $700,000 for a one bedroom apartment.
"In my opinion, it's probably the most undervalued inner west suburb," Falas said.
Crown Group achieved an impressive $173 million in sales within four hours at the launch of Sydney by Crown in November, after reaching its $100 million sales target within two hours.
The revival of Sydney’s inner west location continues with CPM Realty’s marketing of the Ashfield Lumina, featuring apartments Located at 268–270 Liverpool Road.
Lumina (pictured below) is an eight storey boutique development offering buyers a selection of 61 apartments designed by Marchese Partners.
The Lumina has studio, one bedroom and one bedroom plus study apartments available, through CPM Realty’s Sam Elbanna.
<img src="/images/2015/04/22/-%20270%20Liverpool%20-%20external%20CGI_rs.jpg" alt="">
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