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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A three-level warehouse residential conversion at 118 Victoria Street, Brunswick East, has been listed with expectations above $850,000.
The open-air home comes with two bedrooms, industrial concrete floors, trussed ceilings, and infinity edge pool.
<a href="https://www.jelliscraig.com.au/property-details-118-Victoria-Street-Brunswick-East/218699#.VRMrFDpMIzU" target="_blank">Jellis Craig agent Craig Shearn</a> has scheduled the auction for 11 April.
It last sold at $614,000 in 2006 when Craig Shearn was quoting $500,000 to $550,000.
It had been the Youngs Motor Product premises.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Brunswick East warehouse conversion for April auction

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The four properties in The Block Triple Threat will be going under the hammer on Tuesday 28 April, with each team listing their renovations.
The open for inspection has been set for the weekend of 11 April, and as <a href="/expert-insights/the-block-on-show-at-this-weekends-open-for-inspection">in previous seasons</a> fans and spectators will be able to tour through the South Yarra townhouses.
<a href="/expert-insights/building/david-wood-of-hockingstuart-to-auction-charlotte-and-joshs-the-block-triple-threat-apartment">Josh and Charlotte</a> have chosen hockingstuart's Mark Konishi and Georgia Whitford to market their unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-south+yarra-119439203" target="_blank">1/27 Darling Street</a> (pictured below). David Wood of Hockingstuart Albert Park will auction their renovation. Wood has appeared on previous seasons, notably securing <a href="/expert-insights/buying/steve-and-chantelles-auctioneer-david-wood-on-the-blocks-record-breaking-win">the winning result for Steve and Chantelle</a> in The Block Fans v Faves.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/south%20yarra%20ap%20one.jpg" width="800" height="600">
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/for-sale/27-darling-street-south-yarra-vic-3141-2011881553" target="_blank">Apartment Two</a> (pictured below), renovated by Tim and Anastasia, has been listed with Biggin &amp; Scott agent Russell Cambridge. Last season, Cambridge worked with Deanne and Darren for the campaign of their Glasshouse apartment.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/south%20yarra%20ap%20two.jpg" alt="">
Ayden and Jess, who have renovated <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-south+yarra-119448343" target="_blank">3/27 Darling Street</a> (pictured below), are going with Joel Ser and Adam Joske of Gary Peer &amp; Associates.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/south%20yarra%20ap%20three.jpg" alt="">
The unit of returning renovators Deanne and Darren at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-south+yarra-119444079" target="_blank">4/27 Darling Street</a> (pictured below) <a href="/expert-insights/building/dea-and-darren-decide-on-damien-cooley-for-the-block-triple-threat">will be auctioned by Damien Cooley</a>, while their apartment is marketed by Jellis Craig's Andrew McCann. McCann and Cooley teamed up last season to secure a win for brothers Simon and Shannon.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/south%20yarra%20ap%20four.jpg" alt="">
Deanne and Darren and Ayden and Jess's listings are the only ones so far that make a mention of their reality television heritage.
The three storey townhouses each have three bedrooms and two bathrooms, with two parking spaces.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

The Block Triple Threat units listed and auction date revealed

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Louis Christopher, the managing director of SQM Research, has upgraded his forecast Sydney house price growth to a probable 11% to 15% for 2015.
There were previously 8% to 12% price growth expectations for Sydney.
But he puts the current surge in some perspective, noting it was not happening elsewhere in the country. 
He maintains that despite all the hype, Sydney prices are still more affordable than at the peak of the last boom.
"Back in December 2003, on our valuation, the market was 55% over fair market value," Christopher told the AFR's Robert Harley.
"Today it is 25% over fair value.
"So it is over valued, but not to the magnitude it was in 2003," he says.
In a position paper entitled, The National Housing Bubble That Isn't, Christopher argued: 
"Let me tell you it’s wrong to take a broad-brush stroke on the housing market when all the evidence suggests there is no national housing bubble currently in existence.
"Sure, you could make the claim that Sydney property is overvalued and in bubble territory.
"Perhaps you could make the claim that parts of Melbourne are also experiencing a strong run up in prices as well.
"However, please try telling residents of Adelaide that they are in the midst of a property bubble when prices have been almost stagnant for the past 12 months. Prices haven't done much better in Brisbane, Hobart or Canberra for that matter. 
"Or the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast which have recently bottomed out after a housing price crash. "There are also literally hundreds of other smaller townships and residences dotted around the country which have not experienced capital growth in a very long time and are running at discounts to incomes.
"These localities are influenced by local factors.
"No matter how cheap mortgages are, prices in these localities will still rise and fall, largely as a result of the fortunes of their local economies."
He presented a table from the Australian Bureau of Statistics that showed one and 10-year annualised results for most cities which he wrote appeared "rather benign".
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/sqm%20april%202%20one.png" alt="">
He does not rule out that there won’t get a housing bubble in future.
"Our forecasting modelling does suggest that the current low rates and low Australian dollar will be increasingly stimulatory to at least the Melbourne and Brisbane markets on top of the already booming Sydney market," said Christopher.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/sqm%20april%202%20two.png" alt="">
Source: <a href="https://mail.privatemedia.com.au/owa/14.3.224.2/scripts/premium/redir.aspx?SURL=si9mxRlYo-925eHFwMaV6v6j2mhx4EDoA_-M8dPEXj8EDlvZAzrSCGgAdAB0AHAAOgAvAC8AcwBxAG0AcgBlAHMAZQBhAHIAYwBoAC4AdQBzADUALgBsAGkAcwB0AC0AbQBhAG4AYQBnAGUAMQAuAGMAbwBtAC8AdAByAGEAYwBrAC8AYwBsAGkAYwBrAD8AdQA9ADkAYgBhAGQAYgBkADgANwAwAGEAZABkAGIANABhAGYANwAyADIAMAA2AGMAMgBlAGIAJgBpAGQAPQBkADMAYgBlADEAMgA4ADQAZAA2ACYAZQA9ADAAYQBhAGIAOQA2AGQAYwA1ADQA&amp;URL=http%3a%2f%2fsqmresearch.us5.list-manage1.com%2ftrack%2fclick%3fu%3d9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb%26id%3dd3be1284d6%26e%3d0aab96dc54" target="_blank">2015 Housing Boom and Bust Report</a> The above table covers SQM's forecasts for 2015 made back in September.
"For the record, given the interest rate cut we have had and the fall in the Australian dollar, we now believe our ‘Scenario Two’ forecasts are increasingly in play over the base case ‘Scenario One’ forecasts.
"And on those numbers, Melbourne and Brisbane house prices could take off, particularly later in the year."  "In Sydney itself, I recognise the market is trading in overvalued territory.
"If our forecasts are right for this year, the market will move to a point which would suggest it is 40% overvalued.
"That would be the second highest point we will have reached since the 1980s." <a href="https://mail.privatemedia.com.au/owa/14.3.224.2/scripts/premium/redir.aspx?SURL=h8JfaAFIDGnokiBxMQxjhX-CjhJW9JcIt_cAljfrhO0EDlvZAzrSCGgAdAB0AHAAOgAvAC8AcwBxAG0AcgBlAHMAZQBhAHIAYwBoAC4AdQBzADUALgBsAGkAcwB0AC0AbQBhAG4AYQBnAGUALgBjAG8AbQAvAHQAcgBhAGMAawAvAGMAbABpAGMAawA_AHUAPQA5AGIAYQBkAGIAZAA4ADcAMABhAGQAZABiADQAYQBmADcAMgAyADAANgBjADIAZQBiACYAaQBkAD0AMgA1ADIANABhAGUAYwA1ADgAYwAmAGUAPQAwAGEAYQBiADkANgBkAGMANQA0AA..&amp;URL=http%3a%2f%2fsqmresearch.us5.list-manage.com%2ftrack%2fclick%3fu%3d9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb%26id%3d2524aec58c%26e%3d0aab96dc54" target="_blank"></a><img src="/images/2015/04/02/sqm%20april%202%20three.png" alt="">
Louis Christopher points out that there are some very logical reasons "which are not in any way associated with cheap mortgages".
"Sydney has, for example, strong population growth," he said.
"The city expanded by an estimated 90,000 people last year.
"With this population increase the city has still been underbuilding even while building approvals have picked up.
"NSW has a strong state economy and the future is looking good on infrastructure spending, presuming the 'poles and wires' sell-off goes through state parliament.
"Sydney unemployment is lower than the national average."
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Sydney price growth to be even stronger than forecast: SQM Research

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Yesterday the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released building approvals data for February 2015. 
After a record high monthly number of dwelling approvals in January 2015 approval numbers could not quite be matched in February although they remain at near-record highs.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4464" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Chart-1.jpg" alt="Chart 1" width="500" height="159">
Over the month there were 18,768 dwelling approvals, down from 19,397 in January. Although approvals fell by -3.2% over the month, the number of approvals in February was still the second highest monthly figure on record. The number of approvals has increased by 14.3% over the past twelve months highlighting that there is a clear boom in approvals which sit at highs never before seen. 
Given that housing supply has been insufficient for the past decade this is a welcome development, especially considering the strong multiplier effect of higher rates of construction on the Australian economy. Over the past 12 months there have been a record high 205,929 dwellings approved for construction.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4465" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Chart-2.jpg" alt="Chart 2" width="500" height="158">
Looking at a breakdown between houses and units, the data shows that over the month there were 9,613 houses and 9,155 units approved for construction. House approvals were 0.2% higher over the month while the more lumpy unit approvals recorded a -6.6% monthly fall. 
Year-on-year, house approvals are unchanged while unit approvals have increased by 34.5%. With such a higher rate of growth in new apartment approvals, is clear that the new unit segment of the market is booming at the moment. Over the 12 months to February 2015 there were 114,747 house approvals and 91,183 unit approvals. 
While house approvals were a long way from their record high annual approvals of 140,832, unit approvals currently sit at an all-time high.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4466" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Chart-3.jpg" alt="Chart 3" width="500" height="159">
Looking at the capital city data it becomes further evident that new unit construction is booming, particularly across the east coast capital cities, despite a sharp rise in house approvals in February. Over the month, capital city house approvals increased by 26.6% and capital city unit approvals rose by 11.5%. 
The year-on-year figures show the trend towards unit approvals with house approvals increasing by 3.5% compared to a 43.0% jump in unit approvals.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4467" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Chart-4.jpg" alt="Chart 4" width="500" height="159">
Over the 12 months to February 2015 there were a record-high 153,303 capital city dwelling approvals. Dwelling approvals have increased by 13.0% over the year. Over the past year there were a record high number of dwelling approvals in Sydney (39,802), Melbourne (51,037) and Brisbane (23,303).
 Approvals were below their record highs but still hefty in Adelaide (8,990), Perth (26,942), Hobart (981), Darwin (1,820) and Canberra (3,428). Note that despite Sydney being our most populous city and arguably having the greatest under-supply of housing and increases in home values, the number of approvals was much lower compared with Melbourne.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4468" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Chart-5.jpg" alt="Chart 5" width="500" height="159">
Focussing on the detached housing market there were 75,597 capital city house approvals over the year to February 2015 which is 14.6% higher than the previous year. Across the individual cities, there were 13,503 approvals in Sydney, 22,530 approvals in Melbourne, 10,671 in Brisbane, 5,755 in Adelaide, 19,891 in Perth, 887 in Hobart, 795 in Darwin and 1,565 in Canberra. Note that Melbourne house approvals were almost double that in Sydney and Perth was also significantly higher. Over the year, the change in house approvals has been recorded at: 17.5% in Sydney, 15.5% in Melbourne, 31.4% in Brisbane, 4.0% in Adelaide, 8.8% in Perth, 50.1% in Hobart, 5.4% in Darwin and -5.1% in Canberra.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4469" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Chart-6.jpg" alt="Chart 6" width="500" height="159">
Across the unit market there were 80,706 capital city approvals over the past year accounting for 51.6% of all capital city dwelling approvals and a record-high annual number. Unit approvals in Melbourne (28,507) and Brisbane (12,632) were at historic high levels over the year while Sydney and Perth were also close to a record high with 26,299 and 7,051 unit approvals respectively.
Elsewhere there were 3,235 unit approvals in Adelaide, 94 in Hobart, 1,025 in Darwin and 1,863 in Canberra. Unit approvals were higher over the year in Sydney (1.7%), Melbourne (27.4%), Brisbane (12.3%), Adelaide (25.8%), Perth (21.7%) and Darwin (4.9%) but fell in Hobart (-47.8%) and Canberra (-45.2%).
Unit approvals accounted for more than half of all approvals in Sydney (66.1%), Melbourne (55.9%), Brisbane (54.2%), Darwin (56.3%) and Canberra (54.3%). Sydney, Darwin and Canberra have approved more units than houses for many years however, in Melbourne and Brisbane this is a relatively new phenomena. 
With unit approvals at all-time highs in both Melbourne and Brisbane we have some concerns around exactly who is going to buy all this stock. Of course demand for inner city units is growing however supply can quickly turn to a glut if there is too much development. 
Rental growth is already slow in both cities and given units tend to be favoured by investors there are some concerns about a potential glut of this stock in Melbourne and Brisbane. It should be noted that just because a dwelling is approved doesn’t necessarily mean it will be constructed and there are generally many more hurdles in order to deliver high-rise units. 
Record high unit approvals with record low interest rates are likely to create some risks, most notably a risk of oversupply of inner city units in Melbourne and Brisbane where the level of new construction is unprecedented. 
Further down the track as interest rates rise and capital growth slows there are some concerns that the heightened level of investor activity in the Sydney and Melbourne unit markets may result in value falls if and when these investors exit to asset classes enjoying a superior performance. Particularly considering that rental returns for Sydney and Melbourne units are at near record lows and rental growth is moderate. 
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Dwelling approvals dip (but only slightly) in February: Cameron Kusher

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Do the economists and journalists who attribute Sydney’s busy market to low interest rates ever wonder why other cities aren’t pumping?
Are record low interest rates a secret known only to Sydney residents?
It brings to mind a talk I witnessed two to three years ago by Craig James from CommSec. He commented that economists with skinny knowledge used China as their fallback explanation of everything, when all else failed. Exports are rising? It’s China. The dollar’s high? China. WA’s booming? China. Real estate is strong? China.
He was only half joking.
And currently it’s no joke that economists who understand nothing about residential real estate will use interest rates as their catch-all rationale for elevated activity in Sydney’s market.
The Australian this week was the latest media outlet to fall into the trap with its headline “Rate cut driving home price surge: analysts”.
The article was written by a journalist whose knowledge of real estate markets could be written on the back of a postage stamp in crayon. The headline writer knew even less. And the analysts quoted in the article knew the least of all.
It’s just too easy, almost flippant, to dismiss Sydney’s heightened activity as a factor of low interest rates.
As an explanation, it’s plain wrong.
We’ve had low, low interest rates for a long time now. Yet in the past 12 months, dwelling values have fallen (marginally) in three of our capital cities. Three others have grown less than 3% in annual terms. Another has managed a 5% rise in values. Only Sydney is writing boom numbers.
Why are record low interest rates not stimulating markets around the nation? Why do we not have conditions replicating those from 2001 to 2003, when every capital city delivered double-digit growth for at least two consecutive years?
For the benefit of the uneducated, including the economists, let me translate. It’s nothing to do with interest rates.
A clue to the rise of Sydney markets was contained in the events of last weekend. No, not the auction results. I refer to the election results.
The NSW government last weekend became the first incumbent in years to survive an election with a clear majority. Every other state or federal government has been mercilessly dumped, including Queensland Premier Campbell Newman who managed to squander the greatest landslide majority in the history of politics, or (in the case of the South Australian government) ended up with a hung parliament.
The NSW government was returned because it was judged to be a competent administrator of the state’s finances and fortunes.
The NSW economy – and the Sydney property market – started to turn around when the current Liberal administration won office four years ago.
It defeated the ALP government which, after 16 years in power had become arrogant, complacent, corrupt and downright incompetent. It was undoubtedly the worst government I’ve seen anywhere. Under that appalling regime with its revolving door premiership, nothing was being generated in NSW other than negative headlines. No infrastructure was being built and the economy had stagnated.
Four years ago Adelaide had more infrastructure under development than did Sydney.
With the change in government in 2011, NSW came off life support. It began to recover and then to thrive. Today it has the number one economy in the nation, according to CommSec’s State of the States report. Sydney is alive with massive infrastructure projects, with more in the planning pipeline.
Nothing drives residential property markets like infrastructure spending. The North-West Rail Link, the South-West Rail Link, the NorthConnex Motorway, the M4 upgrade, various major hospital expansions - plus early moves for the Badgerys Creek airport, the WestConnex motorway, the M9 Orbital, the light rail project and others – are front and centre in the revitalisation of Sydney’s economy and property markets.
Many tens of billions of dollars in investment is percolating through the Sydney economy, creating business activity and jobs at a rate not seen in NSW for a decade.
Before all this happened, Sydney was the great under-achiever of Australian real estate. Even with the growth of the past two years, Sydney still has one of the lowest 10-year growth averages among the state and territory capital cities.
Essentially, Sydney has been playing catch-up with long-term growth leaders like Perth, Darwin and Melbourne – and that’s been a significant catalyst to Sydney’s growth.
But, if you heed the nation’s chattering economists, none of that matters. It’s all about interest rates.
TERRY RYDER is the founder of <a href="https://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://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. 
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Sydney's price boom isn't about interest rates: Terry Ryder

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It’s no secret that the topic of underquoting gets under my skin and it should get under yours as well - many property buyers have fallen victim to this trap.
But let's set aside the practice of underquoting for a short moment and discuss other sleight of hand illusions of achieving high prices at auctions.
There are three schools of thought when it comes to achieving above the reserve for properties sold by auction.
Firstly, there is the thought that market forces are at work and have an uncontrollable bearing on the day of the auctions. Secondly, there is the marketing and methods of underquoting. Finally, last but by no means least, is the sheer ignorance by the industry experts when it comes to understanding property values. These points can be summarised as follows:
<ul>
<li>Market forces</li>
<li>Underquoting</li>
<li>Industry ignorance</li>
</ul>
Number 1: Market Forces 
A competent agent can and will gauge these external forces. This is one of the main reasons why vendors hire the “professional real estate agent” in the first place, isn’t it? The vendor wants to make sure they get the most value for their property. After all, we are on the field; we eat and breathe real estate for a living.
When <a href="/expert-insights/buying/buyers-needed-to-add-11-to-weekend-sydney-pre-auction-price-guidance">Jonathan Chancellor wrote, to expect to pay 11% above</a> what was being quoted as a price guide, we could say market forces were at play. Beyond the 10% tolerance prescribed by <a href="https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/pdfs/Property_agents_and_managers/estimatedpriceguideline.pdf" target="_blank">Fair Trade NSW</a> or <a href="https://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/vic/consol_act/eaa1980145/s47a" target="_blank">the Victorian Estate Agents Act</a> however, it all becomes questionable. An example of how the 10% tolerance works, is shown below.
<img src="/images/2015/03/26/edwin%20mar%2026%20one.jpg" alt="">
Number 2: Underquoting
Without going into too much detail, please read my last article which references <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/lies-real-estate-property-auction-campaigns-day-1-part-almeida" target="_blank">underquoting</a> and focused on the cost to the real estate industry (REI), real estate agents (REAs) and most importantly, the unnecessary cost to the public.
I have been vocal about the <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/lie-lies-real-estate-property-auction-campaigns-edwin-almeida" target="_blank">Valentines Day $1 Auction</a> from the very first day. Now, another novel auction graces the media, the <a href="/news/vic/brighton-bathing-box-listed-with-150-000-guide">Brighton Bathing Box sale with a price-guide of $150,000</a>. That’s all it’s worth you say? Truth be told, late last year one sold at $215,000. A price-guide of 30% lower? Is this a deliberate ploy to draw a crowd and to entice buyers? <a href="https://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/vic/consol_act/eaa1980145/s47a" target="_blank">Where are the Victorian regulators on this?</a>
It’s now sold, as you may know, for $276,000 - 84% above price guide.
Now, you may not be <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/lies-real-estate-property-auction-campaigns-day-1-part-almeida" target="_blank">“personally offended”</a> by campaigns with notions of underquoting, as in the case of the CEO of the REINSW. You, may also blame the <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/agents-lured-into-under-quoting-tricks-real-estate-institute-of-nsw-president-says/story-fnpn118l-1227272725834" target="_blank">“greed of the market” and the vendor</a> as in the case of the President of the REINSW Malcolm Gunning.
It is however, <a href="https://news.domain.com.au/domain/real-estate-news/underquoting-real-estate-agents-have-nowhere-to-hide-if-they-break-the-law-20150316-1m0amu" target="_blank">simply illegal to underquote and no REA that values their licence and reputation</a> should be encouraged nor coerced into this illegal practice. More to the point, even if the vendors tell the REAs to break the law, must we?
Most of the industry would like the public to believe we have no choice, when deciding whether to break the law or not. The REI bodies seem fit to shift the blame away from the agents or the industry and instead want to blame the public and vendors.
Blaming the vendor seems to be the common thread among the RE Institutes around Australia; see article posted below. Blaming the vendor however, will not rid the industry of the practice of underquoting. It just seems to be a case of blame shifting – blame the vendor and greedy market, at will.
<img src="/images/2015/04/02/edwin-april-2-opne.png" alt="">
Source: Australian Financial Review, 9 October, 2012
Education, be it Gunning’s instinctive solution, is not the immediate short-term answer either. I would like to put forward a message to our valiant leaders in the Institutes: this practice of underquoting is well entrenched in the ranks of the Institute's membership.
It isn’t the vendors, nor the newly licensed REAs that came up with the novel idea of <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/price-low-watch-go-edwin-almeida" target="_blank">“price it low and watch it go”</a>. Underquoting, is an entrenched culture in the industry and has been for decades.
If it’s a short, sharp and quick solution that the Institute’s are looking for to bring credibility to our industry, here are some novel ideas:
<ul>
<li>Rid the root of the problem from the REINSW and REIV membership. Surprisingly or perhaps not, some may have even obtained their licences from the same Institutes.</li>
<li>Name and shame RE Institute members that do get caught out.</li>
<li>Ask the governing body, Fair Trade NSW to suspend licences and to do so immediately. Lets not protect the REI members that are creating the issues just because they appeared on national TV. Take a bold stand and clean our house before we try and sweep the streets.</li>
</ul>
You want partial self-regulation? This is a great start to show both, the public and NSW Fair Trade that we mean business. <a href="https://www.reinsw.com.au/imis15_prod/web/Posts/Latest_News/201404/REINSW_President_Malcolm_Gunning_calls_for_greater_professionalism.aspx" target="_blank"> </a>
"REINSW is advocating that we partner with the NSW Fair Trading to share responsibility for regulating the real estate profession,"<a href="https://www.reinsw.com.au/imis15_prod/web/Posts/Latest_News/201404/REINSW_President_Malcolm_Gunning_calls_for_greater_professionalism.aspx" target="_blank"> said Gunning.</a>
Number 3: Industry Ignorance 
Other than market forces, can we excuse most out of line sales and blame it on “ignorance”? Ignorance may be used as an excuse, but it is not a defence when there are legal ramifications. 
Within the current property climate, it appears agents hide behind “market forces” to cover up for their ignorance of the council’s changes to local land rezoning proposals, for the out of line sales. <a href="/expert-insights/nearly-100-above-the-initial-price-guide-underquoting-rears-its-ugly-head">Market forces and no comparable sales</a> is also used as an excuse when not being able to properly determine land and home values. Or is this just another tact to draw the crowd, be it a mix of sophisticated and novice buyers.
On the other hand, when it comes to boasting about achieving high sales figures and well above reserves, they are the first in line to publicly report their achievements.
What I would surmise is that most agents don’t fathom the possible monitory loss they can cause their vendors, if the property is sold at the price-guide given or even the reserve price on the day.
In the case of a Gladesville property sale, an agent boasted about the <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/realestate/news/cottage-fetches-11-million-over-the-reserve-as-auctions-across-sydney-remain-hot/story-fni0cly6-1227262369554" target="_blank">$1,100,000 over reserve that was achieved</a>. Further West of Sydney’s CBD, in Guildford, we had another “stellar campaign” boasting a 25% above reserve accomplishment.
It’s clear; the REAs simply and frankly, did not know the true value of the land. I am surprised the vendors allowed them to go near the property and take such a risk. Or is there really more to the story?
Perhaps, Gunning president has greater insight that explains this phenomenon? He claims vendors have more to do with this issue than not as timid and innocent agents are <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/agents-lured-into-under-quoting-tricks-real-estate-institute-of-nsw-president-says/story-fnpn118l-1227272725834" target="_blank">“lured by unrealistic expectations… and the greedy market”</a> to underquote.
One thing is for sure, agents can run around beating their chest, declaring what stellar campaigns were run as 20%-30% sales above reserve were achieved (which can only mean the agents didn't know the values of the property in the first place). Or, the alternative is the property was deliberately underquoted in the first instance.
It has to be one or the other my friends.
Nonetheless, blaming the vendor, whether or not it comes from high up the ranks of the REINSW or the REIV, is not going to cut the mustard in the court rooms. The "greedy market lured me" and "the vendor made me do it" just won’t fly.
Ignorance versus underquoting
Ignorance from agents, of what is going on in the proposed changes to the local council environment plans will cost vendors dearly. But why don’t we hear many vendors raise their voices and complain? Simply because these sales being published and boasted about, netted the vendor a sale above so-called expectations. Vendors truly believe the agents did a wonderful job.
Now, take a moment and think about the “what if” scenario. What if, the Gladesville and Guildford sales only achieved a figure to equal what the agents set as a price guide or the reserve?
For this very reason, I am of the opinion that agents need to go back to basics if they are going to play with the future of their vendor's assets and take risks by not knowing the true value of the property. Better yet, they should consider going back to selling used cars if this is how they intend to perform in this industry.
Its a risk that may have even cost the State of NSW dearly, as noted in the first sale of the <a href="https://news.domain.com.au/domain/real-estate-news/sydney-property-highlights-of-2014-20141219-12a1qv" target="_blank">Millers Point property sales</a>.
Not researching changes to local council planning, and not keeping up to date with property development rezoning is unprofessional, ignorant, and sheer laziness. Why exactly are you paying the agent a fee of 2.5% average? Do the math.
Therefore, either the agents are ignorant and one has to wonder why they have a licence in the first instance, or they are blatantly underquoting to draw a crowd – even if the crowd is purely made up of “sophisticated buyers”. There is no two ways about this fact.
We cannot excuse and blame market forces any longer for flirting with the law and peoples well-being. Vendors entrust our industry to uphold the regulations and guide them to the best possible outcome. An outcome that should be far removed from any notion that the REA broke the law, or was lured into breaking the law to achieve the best possible result.
Most off all, REAs cannot blame 'market forces' or 'no comparable sales' for being ignorant and gambling with the real possibility that they will undersell a property, for the person that placed full confidence in their professional expertise.
Next time you see headlines of great achievement in a sale by auction, ask yourself the question: underquoting or ignorance?
Here are the real figures achieved in the stellar campaigns run by the agents:
<table style="width: 460px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Property
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Reserve
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Sale price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$ above reserve
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
% Difference
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Brighton
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$150,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$276,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$136,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
84%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Guildford
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$900,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$1,130,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$230,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
26%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Gladesville
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$$1,750,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$2,850,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$1,100,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
63%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A few things that I would like to clarify, and that is; I am not forming a campaign against auctioneers. Nor am I opposing the sale of land/property by means of auction. I am also in favor of high industry standards and ongoing education.
I’m against the misrepresentation and the deceptive conduct allowed to become a free for all.
Underquoting is an entrenched practice that both bodies – the REI and the RE Institutes – seem to quickly dismiss and in turn blame the vendor.
Isn’t it about time we took full responsibility and acted like the professionals the public trust us to be? Now is the time to make the difference and stop blame-shifting, even if our REI leaders have apparently found it so easy to do.
EDWIN ALMEIDA is licensee in charge of <a href="https://www.just-thin.com.au/" target="_blank">Just Think Real Estate</a>.<a href="https://www.just-thin.com.au/"> </a>
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>.
</body></html>

ealmedia-arK4DBYLjS

Underquoting or industry ignorance - it can only be one or the other: Edwin Almeida

<html><body>
My last Saturday was spent by securing development sites in a new land release, then meeting with a potential new client, followed by working on the lolly stall at my son's school fete and then finally casting my vote.
In New South Wales, we had a state election and the Liberals won.
I was happy with this result. Now they say never to discuss politics or religion at a party, but there's no mention of what to include in a blog.  Look, I'm not very politically minded and I know there are great things that other parties stand for. I was interested to see a party by the name of No Land Tax, that tickled my fancy and I believe they got a fair whack of votes. But I have to say, when the Libs are in it usually means that some big infrastructure funding will take place.
And this is what I'm most interested in.
Infrastructure spend is music to the ears of property developers and investors. It means money will be ploughed into the local communities. The benefits of large infrastructure projects such as road upgrades or new hospitals, means local employment is boosted and workers are attracted to the area, boosting rental demand. These workers spend money and so we see a flow on effect into retail sales as the works are undertaken.
For example, in Maitland City, one of the locations in the Lower Hunter Region that Property Bloom develops in, there was a nice list of government spending confirmed. These planned infrastructure investments were confirmed after the election and include a $7 million investment in a the New England Highway upgrade, one public school will receive a $5 million upgrade and another $1 million; Maitland PCYC will receive $1 million expansion to support youth activities. There will also be $25 million spent on planning for the new Maitland hospital and $3.8 million for a new ambulance station.
These announcements are all good indicators that the city is dynamic and there are solid plans for future growth. It may also indicate that it's a good place to buy or build an investment property. Of course you need to do your due diligence to ensure you are investing in the right suburbs that will enjoy the impact of these works and where there is good demand for rental properties, but that's not a hard thing to do.
When the Sydney market is over inflated, it seems like a no brainer to turn to these large regional cities as an affordable alternative.
When this kind of money is invested into a community it has a trickledown effect. It builds business confidence and encourages other investment spending.
So after Saturday, this city is celebrating the good news. So are our clients who have invested and developed property in the area. We are happy that we've completed a number of development projects in this location and have just been notified of some new development opportunities.
Wishing you all a happy and safe Easter break.
<a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au" target="_blank">www.propertybloom.com.au</a>
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jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

Why the NSW Liberals win is good news for property developers and investors: Jo Chivers

<html><body>
Melbourne’s metropolitan office market has kicked off 2015 strongly.
It followed yet another record year of sales totalling more than $1 billion, according to Colliers International. 
The Colliers International’s latest Metropolitan Office Research &amp; Forecast Report, Dial for Demand: Enquiry for Metro Assets on the Rise, found last year was a record in terms of calendar year sales volumes in the Melbourne metro office market, with just under $1.1 billion worth of sales recorded. 
“To put this in perspective, this figure is slightly above total sales volumes for 2012 and 2013 combined,” Peter Bremner, Colliers International national director of investment sales, said.
He noted suburban office sales above $5 million skyrocketed to an all-time high of $1,053,000,000 in 2014.
It was a substantial jump on the $607 million worth of metropolitan assets sold during 2013, which was also a record high at the time.
<img src="/images/2015/04/01/coll-ap-1.jpg" alt="">
Source: Colliers International
Their records show there were 52 individual transactions above $5 million last year, compared to 38 in 2013.
Buyer activity was especially prevalent in the city fringe region, where 41 percent of the 53 deals occurred, followed by the outer east region were 23% of sales occurred. Over 55% of assets were sold to private investors, however in value terms, these investors accounted for 35% of total sales volumes.
Sales by Colliers International in 2014 included:
<ul>
<li>850 Whitehorse Road in Box Hill, sold for $12.85 million to a local developer for residential redevelopment;</li>
<li>1 Palmerston Crescent in South Melbourne, sold for $14.35 million to a Malaysian investor;</li>
<li>187 Todd Road in Port Melbourne, sold on behalf of Challenger, to Podco, for $26.25 million;</li>
<li>200 Victoria Street in Carlton, sold off-market for $42.3 million to Australian Unity;</li>
<li>Botannica 8 at 576 Swan Street in Richmond, sold for $46.5 million to 360 Capital.</li>
</ul>
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Melbourne suburban office sales skyrocket to an all-time high: Colliers International

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Savills South Australia have sold two Adelaide CBD commercial office buildings for a total of $37.5 million, reflecting a 7.5% yield.
The adjacent properties at 60 Wakefield Street and 21 Divett Place were sold by Peter Isaksson and Rino Carpinelli of Savills on behalf of the South Australian government.
The properties were acquired by property syndication firm Ascot Capital Limited in association with Adelaide-based financial group Finance Mutual Australia (FMA).
Ascot and FMA intend to do more transactions together and are actively looking for other opportunities that meet their requirements, Peter Isaksson, Divisional Director Capital Transactions of Savills South Australia, said.
The rare offering of two Adelaide CBD properties on long-term leaseback to the South Australian government, attracted strong interest from local and national buyers.
The sale followed Savills’ sale last year of the 22 King William Street office building for $41.8 million.
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Savills sells two Adelaide CBD office blocks

<html><body>
The former Wallabies player Brendan Cannon has joined the CBRE Capital Markets team in Brisbane.
Brendan Cannon is a former development manager at Charter Hall.
Cannon joins the metropolitan investments team in an associate director position.
He had been a general manager role with telecommunications group Digicel.
Cannon played for the Australian Rugby Union team from 2001 to 2007, earning 42 caps for the Wallabies. 
Cannon has also played professional rugby for the Queensland Reds, New South Wales Waratahs and Western Force in the Super 12 and Super 14 competitions.
CBRE director, capital markets, Flint Davidson said Cannon’s appointment would bolster the team’s already strong presence in the Brisbane market. 
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