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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As the RBA warns investors to watch their yields, the first Victorian mall sale has been recorded this year on a sharp passing yield of 5.4%.
Late 2014 sales were at yields of 6.3% and 6.9%.
CBRE research data noted the compression in yields correlates to the decline in the cost of debt, along with the falling 10 year bond rates.
CBRE's director of retail investments, Mark Wizel, tips a record sub-6% yield for sub-$100 million, non-discretionary retail centre transactions this year.
The latest sale was $13.3 million for the <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-croydon+north-501463703" target="_blank">Maroondah Village Shopping Centre</a>, a neighbourhood shopping centre in Melbourne's outer north east.
The 3,092 square metre shopping centre is anchored by a 2,074 square metre Coles supermarket.
The property failed to sell when taken to market in 2012, when there were only three years remaining on the Coles lease.
Coles recently renewed its lease for another 10 years, plus options.
The net income was advised as $844,000 annually at June 2016.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Coles lease helps secure 5.4% yield for Melbourne mall

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A Fairhaven holiday house has sold for $3 million before its scheduled Easter Sunday auction.
The double storey home at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/lialeeta-road-fairhaven/Property-Details-sold-residential-8401114" target="_blank">Lialeeta Road</a> was listed with $2.75 million to $3 million price expectations by Marty Maher and Mim Atkinson of Great Ocean Properties Aireys Inlet.
While Maher says there is often strong interest in the tightly held holiday homes in Aireys Inlet, the Lialeeta Road house is "certainly a standout property".
"There have only been a handful of $3 million plus sales in the area," says Maher.
The home's location, with easy access to the Fairhaven Surf Lifesaving Club, along with its clifftop position, set it apart from other properties in the area.
The vendors had held the property, used as a holiday home, for 19 years. The three bedroom house on a 920 square metre parcel was renovated in 2010, with timber featuring prominently.
"It had quite a lot of people looking through it, but affordability is an issue at that end," says Maher.
Ultimately, there were two interested parties, with buyers from Melbourne making the $3 million offer pre-auction and securing the property. It will be used as a holiday home.
Its auction was to be one of a number Victorian coastal properties going under the hammer on the traditionally quiet <a href="/news/vic/two-aireys-inlet-homes-among-coastal-victorian-easter-auctions">Easter long weekend</a>.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Fairhaven clifftop house sells for $3 million before Easter auction

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The 1860s Pommy Lodge, the former church and manse, passed in at $1.4 million at its weekend North Willoughby auction has been since sold for $1.65 million.
It was the home of the late artist John Butler, whose family owned the property for around four decades.
Forsyth agents Di Burcham and James Snodgrass had <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-willoughby-119184479" target="_blank">th</a><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-willoughby-119184479" target="_blank">e 1860s sandstone offering</a>.
The enchanting cottage is located at 105 Penshurst Street.
The site contained a two roomed wooden school building, which Eliza Davies opened as a Bush Mission School in June, 1862, the first school on the north side.
The following year in July, it was relaunched as the North Sydney National School, when it came under the government school ­system.
The building of Willoughby Public School in 1863 made it redundant.
The North Sydney Congregational Church was officially opened in 1872. In the late 1880s the Congregationalists built a larger church on the corner of Church Street and the old church became the manse.
In 1896 George Leafe, owner of a general store in Penshurst Street, bought the manse and converted it into a residence.
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The enchanting 1860s Pommy Lodge cottage, North Willoughby sold

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The Australian Financial Review columnist Chris Joye has suggested "the Reserve Bank of Australia's governor Glenn Stevens is trying to unravel a <a href="https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/239059/Gordian-knot" target="_blank">Gordian knot</a> created by his institution's inconsistencies".
"The RBA is blowing the mother of all housing bubbles to deflate an overvalued exchange rate," Joye wrote today.
He said "it is replacing one asset pricing conundrum with another, arguably more dangerous, one" with "unprecedented monetary policy settings in the form of the cheapest borrowing rates in history to put downward pressure on the Aussie dollar".
Joye suggests "when the RBA cut rates in February it judged the local housing market was cooling".
"Much like it thought rate cuts in 2013 would not fuel an unsustainable housing boom that would force regulators to introduce macro-prudential rules to slow credit growth running at three times the rate of incomes," Joye wrote.
"On all these counts the RBA's forecasts have proven badly wrong.
"It has probably been blindsided by housing dynamics over the last couple of years because it has never confronted these conditions before.
"Back in 1991 the value of housing debt divided by disposable household incomes was just 35%.
"Today it is over 140% - beyond any previous peak.
"And climbing every day."
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"RBA is blowing the mother of all housing bubbles": Chris Joye

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Australia’s largest mortgage broker has appointed Chris Slater as the general manager AFG Home Loans. 
Slater has been with the organization for eight years starting out as a national account manager and then moving to the role of state manager for NSW/ACT in 2008. 
In 2013, Slater was appointed to the role of head of sales and operations.
AFG managing director Brett McKeon said Slater has been a key player in growing the business.
AFG Home Loans division is a key plank of our business strategy. 
Slater and his family are relocating from Sydney to be based in AFG’s Perth head office this week.
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AFG Home Loans appoints Chris Slater as general manger

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Ice-cream and hot-dog chain Wendys is facing potential legal action on a new front, after the company allegedly abandoned its headquarters in Adelaide late last year.
Following the <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/finance/43674-global-food-retail-group-scoops-up-wendys-five-million-gmail-passwords-leaked-online-atlassian-s-sales-up-44-to-us-215-million-midday-roundup" target="_blank">acquisition of the company by Global Food Retail Group</a> in September 2014, Wendys moved out of its rented headquarters on Fullarton Road in the southern Adelaide suburb of Fullarton in December. Its operations are currently being run from its ice-cream factory, which is located in the south-eastern Melbourne suburb of Keysborough.
SmartCompany understands the landlord for the Fullerton Road office complex was not told about the move by Wendys in advance. The landlord only found out after being alerted by a news item on Seven News on Saturday 8 November that said the company was considering relocating its head office to Melbourne.
The move came despite Wendys still having just over four years remaining on its lease for the building, which it had used for decades. It has only paid rent and outgoings via a bank guarantee, which is due to expire in the next few months.
<img src="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/images/0/wendys-600.jpeg">
Despite its relocation, Wendys still lists the Fullarton Road offices on the “contact us” page on its website.
The matter is now likely to end up in court, with the landlord and Wendys currently in talks over the matter through solicitors.
A second source connected to the company said Wendys closed its offices in Adelaide over Christmas. While there was an offer to staff to relocate to Melbourne in order to keep their jobs, only a few employees took up the offer.
"The Seven News story was an embarrassing leak and the new Wendys owners hastily moved into damage control. An internal email in the early hours of Sunday morning was sent to their franchisees and staff in an attempt to quell the unrest. The email tried to paint a rosey picture to the network that all was well and promised transparency every step of the way," the source says.
"As a testament to the culture of this organisation they did not even inform their own landlord that they were vacating his property. They paid rent up until December, got rid of all the staff, shut the office and left. The building now sits vacant with over four years outstanding on the lease. The landlord is taking legal action to recover what he is owed."
The news adds to growing concerns about the viability of Wendys franchise stores and the company’s treatment of franchisees under previous owners Navis Capital.
<a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/growth/franchising/44996-is-wendys-melting-up-to-116-stores-collapsed-or-taken-over-by-management-in-just-eight-years" target="_blank">As previously reported</a>, 116 Wendys stores have either collapsed or been taken over by management over the past eight years. By late last year, Victorian stores were being advertised with an <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/growth/franchising/43801-wendys-says-it-s-committed-to-its-franchisees-as-victorian-stores-advertised-for-as-little-as-59-000" target="_blank">asking price as low as $59,000</a>.
One Wendys franchisee said the fast food chain <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/growth/franchising/45583-former-wendys-franchisee-claims-she-was-refused-maternity-leave" target="_blank">refused to allow her to take maternity leave</a> after giving birth to her second child. Another claimed Wendys <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/growth/franchising/45268-cold-burns-another-franchisee-comes-forward-claiming-mistreatment-by-wendys" target="_blank">repossessed all his stock, fittings and equipment without paying him any compensation</a> after failing to renegotiate a lease.
Tragically, <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/growth/franchising/45184-a-wendys-franchisee-s-nightmare-from-fast-food-state-representative-to-resignation-divorce-and-death" target="_blank">in at least two cases</a>, the failure of a Wendys franchise <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/small-business/franchising/sundae-bloody-sundae-20100809-11u0x" target="_blank">eventually led to a suicide</a>.
The incidents appear to have taken place between 2006 and 2014, when Wendys was owned by Malaysian private equity firm Navis Capital. But the source says there are still concerns for Wendys franchisees.
"I hold grave fears for those struggling franchisees that still remain. Stores continue to close and nothing of any substance has been done to address the lack of profitability for their franchisees. It continues to be a case of profits before people despite the reassuring overtures of the new regime," the source says.
While not speaking specifically about the case, founding principal of Rotstein Commercial Lawyers, Hamish Rotstein, said in general there are more protections for landlords under commercial properties than for retail leases.
“Usually, there’s a covenant in commercial leases that says a property must be occupied during business hours. If the tenant vacates, they are in breach of their lease,” Rotstein said.
“If they vacate, the landlord can either accept the breach and withstand any losses from leasing it out again, or keep leasing an empty building, which is probably not a good thing for a landlord.”
In such a situation, Rotstein says landlords have the right to mitigate their losses by suing the tenant for the difference between the rental of the old tenant and the new one
“In some cases, landlords have also been known to sue tenants for loss of goodwill – obviously a building that’s empty is not as marketable as one that’s being leased, especially if the tenant was a big-name company,” he said.
A Wendys spokesperson about the matter; the company declined to comment.
“Wendys declines to comment on the specifics of the matter as it forms part of ongoing negotiations,” the spokesperson said.
This article first appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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asadauskas-o9wSWMRiAW

Legal battle set to heat up after Wendys abandons Adelaide headquarters

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The Reserve Bank (RBA) released its bi-annual Financial Stability Review (FSR) yesterday. The document provides a guide as to the RBA’s thoughts on the overall economy and potential risks.
As you’d expect, the residential housing market features heavily in their assessment of financial stability and I will delve into some of the key take-outs for the housing market from the document.
<ul>
<li>Housing loan performance</li>
</ul>
The report details that the share of non-performing banks housing loans (ie those housing loans which are at least 90 days in arrears on their repayments) was extremely low, recorded at around 0.6% in December 2014 which is down from a peak of 0.9% in 2011.
The lack of repayment distress across Australian bank mortgage portfolios is being supported by low interest rates which make servicing the mortgage debt easier. The document also states that rising housing prices also make it easier for those home owners in arrears to sell rather than remain in arrears should they run into financial difficulty.
It is important to note that while as a general the statement about rising house prices making it easier to sell is true, the housing market performance varies greatly region-to-region.
Although selling a home in Sydney and Melbourne is relatively easy currently thanks to strong value growth and high levels of demand, housing market conditions in Perth, Hobart or Canberra are more challenging and it would probably be more difficult to sell a home in these markets.
<ul>
<li>Competition in the mortgage market</li>
</ul>
According to the Report competition has remained rigorous over the past six months. There is plenty of competition amongst lenders and as a result they are offering attractive fixed rates and significant discounts of up to 100 basis points off their advertised variable rates. The RBA has also noted targeted special rates as an example of short-term rate specials for those refinancing with lower loan to value ratios (LVRs).
Banks have also increased commissions being paid to their brokers. As a result, refinancing activity has increased and around 40% to 50% of new housing loans are sourced from brokers. The RBA does raise some concerns that the rising prevalence of the broker channel potentially creates risks, specifically that misaligned broker incentives could create higher levels of lending outside of their risk tolerance.
While Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) wrote to Authorised Deposit-taking Institutions (ADIs) highlighting its guidelines for sound residential mortgage lending late last year, the high level of competition across the banking sector may create issues, particularly in the investor space. Given APRA has indicated that growth in investor housing credit should not be materially above 10% per annum, the significant competition in the market means that those who can’t source an investor loan from one ADI may still have plenty of other ADIs to choose from.
<ul>
<li>Lending criteria</li>
</ul>
The RBA is reporting that serviceability and deposit criteria have been relatively unchanged over the past six months. They acknowledge that some banks have recently applied stricter criteria for some inner-city unit markets and regional towns linked to the resources sector. Despite the lending criteria being largely unchanged, the RBA acknowledge that low mortgage rates and the strength in demand from the investment segment have increased the macroeconomic risks from the housing market.
Once again they have acknowledged that investors may amplify housing price cycles and increase the potential for falls in the future. They also note that the rising share of interest-only loans may also increase risks because there is a period over which the principal is not repaid leaving the household with more debt than they would have if they repaid both the principal and interest on the mortgage.
It should be noted that while interest rates are low everywhere and investor activity has increased in most states, the sharp rise in investor participation is most prevalent in Sydney and Melbourne. These two cities have seen the strongest growth in home values over recent years, along with the most significant compression of rental yields which has resulted in these cities exhibiting the lowest rental yields across the capital city housing markets.
The risks of investors amplifying the market are greatest within these two cities, particularly given the strong value growth coupled with very low rental yields and high investor concentrations.
<ul>
<li>Investor lending</li>
</ul>
The FSR notes that investor housing credit has increased at an annualised rate of 10.5% over the past six months however, it is too early to expect a slowdown in investment lending just yet in response to APRA’s guidelines. The reason being that the pipeline of pre-approvals was already in place before APRA wrote to ADIs in December highlighting a guideline of a cap of 10% annual growth in lending to investors.
The RBA notes that investors have contributed to fuelling the rapid growth in home values in Sydney however, the growth has been more moderate outside of Sydney. The FSR states that periods of value growth also increase expectations for further price rises, creating even more demand.
A future fall in housing prices would reduce wealth and dampen spending for the broader household sector, particularly for those households with significant housing debt, not just for the investors who contributed to the upswing.
The RBA has also raised potential concerns that the surge in lending from the investment segment could lead to excessive new housing construction and a potential future glut in certain areas. While the RBA points out there is little risk of this currently at a national levels, there are some areas of local vulnerability, namely inner-city units in Melbourne and Brisbane.
While the RBA has covered off on the risks surrounding heightened levels of investment lending quite well there are a few additional points that need to be made. While investor activity is strongest in Sydney and Melbourne, these two cities already have the lowest gross rental yields. This feeds in to the comment about amplifying the market but is important to understand; investors are chasing capital growth and having little regard for the returns.
Secondly, while there are concerns about too much new housing supply in inner-city Melbourne and Brisbane rental growth is already at its lowest level in more than a decade. Although inner-city Melbourne and Brisbane are areas for concern, there is no mention of the fact that rental rates are already falling in Perth, Darwin and Canberra. Furthermore, while both rents and the rate of population growth are falling in Perth there is simultaneously a record high number of dwelling approvals currently.
<ul>
<li>Mortgage characteristics</li>
</ul>
Although low interest rates and the high level of competition in the mortgage market could create risks, the RBA sees little evidence that lending standards have deteriorated. The share of loan approvals above 90% LVR continued to reduce over 2014. The RBA reports that this shift was led by those lenders that previously reported a higher than average share of these types of loans. The profile of new lending indicates that households remain well placed to service their loans.
The area that the RBA points out as a concern is the increase in interest-only lending. The rising level of interest-only lending to investors is consistent with tax deductibility of investors’ mortgage interest payments which act as a disincentive to pay down the principal.
The banks have suggested that the rise in owner occupier interest-only mortgages has been driven by the borrowers seeking greater flexibility in managing their repayments rather than affordability pressures. Reportedly some of this demand is from owner occupiers who plan to switch their property into a rental property in the future.
The RBA also notes that many of these owner occupiers are building sizeable buffers in their offset and redraw facilities. It should also be noted that in principle, interest-only loans should not increase borrowing capacity because consumer protection regulations imply that lenders should assess a borrower’s ability to service principal and interest payments following the expiry of the interest-only period.
Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is currently assessing compliance with this obligation through its review of interest-only lending. Despite these considerations, interest-only loans – especially for owner-occupiers – pose greater risk to the financial system because they enable borrowers to pay down the principal more slowly than a conventional mortgage.
<ul>
<li>Conclusion</li>
</ul>
The RBA have spelled out a number of key areas of risk surrounding the residential mortgage market. It is clear that the RBA along with the APRA and ASIC are closely monitoring the overall market conditions and are on the lookout for risks and an easing of lending standards.
While each organisation has stated publicly their concerns and what they are going to do to allay those concerns, it seems unlikely that any significant changes to policies due to these risks for individual ADIs would be communicated publicly.
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

The RBA raises concerns over residential housing market: Cameron Kusher

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Hi Margaret,
I have just purchased a house as a principle place of residence for $295,000 with $235,000 left in the mortgage and $225,000 in an offset account. 
We are using the money in the offset account (approximately $30,000) for renovations, and are looking to spend the rest on the purchase in (hopefully two) investment properties.   Do you think this is a good plan of attack or should I keep the money in the offset account and use the equity in the principle place of residence as a deposit on an investment property? 
With $30,000 on renovations hopefully I can have the house re-evaluated for $350,000. 
Kind regards,
Dave
Hi Dave, 
When investors come to my company Destiny for assistance, around 80% of them have finance structures in place that are not well thought through and which are potentially costing them some good tax deductions.
Around 20% of them are straight out incorrect, some of them using strategies which may contravene the spirit of the tax act or in other ways be a potential issue going forward.
When you buy any kind of property, be it for investment or as a principle place of residence (PPOR), you should be thinking with an holistic view – and considering what you may be wishing to achieve financially over many years, rather than just what you need at that moment in time. 
You should have a forward plan and know what level of financial independence you wish to achieve and over what time, as well as many other things such as your risk profile and current and future cash flow needs.
Then you must consult with a professional who can also assist you from a property investment advice perspective as well as getting you the loans you need – and to do this they must have some kind of qualification such as the Qualified Property Investment Advising qualification offered through <a href="https://www.pipa.asn.au">www.pipa.asn.au</a>.
Before you use the $195,000 which will remain in offset after your renovations to invest, you should first clear away all and any personal debt.  This is because such debt is non- deductible, and to use cash as a deposit for a deductible investment while you still have non- deductible debt can be a mistake. 
Then you need to be very sure that you plan to remain in your current PPOR for the duration – if you think there may be any chance that the future may bring a  desire to upgrade into a larger and more expensive home of your own, you will want to preserve your cash to use for that time. 
If you use up your available cash on an investment or two, while you can draw this back to use to buy a bigger home of your own, doing so would create a non- deductible, or personal debt which carries no deductibility.
If this all sounds confusing, this is because it is!  And so you need good guidance which considers a holistic approach to your entire financial future, not just this current home, or the immediate few properties you are ready to buy.  
Regards,
Maragret
Have a property question?  <a href="mailto:askmargaret@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">Ask Margaret!</a>
Please not that due to the number of requests, Margaret may not be able to answer every question.
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Ask Margaret: Should I invest or keep in offset account?

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Rising risky investment in the residential and commercial property market could inflict pain for the broader economy, the Reserve Bank (RBA) has warned in its semi-annual financial stability review.
The commercial property sector was especially under closer scrutiny now as the RBA identified a build up in risks in an area that has "posed a disproportionately large risk" to the financial system.
The comments, reiterating past warnings about the threat, noted competition among lenders remains vigorous in a number of domestic markets and lending margins have fallen.
"Property-related lending has been a particular focus of the competition in the corporate lending market, said the RBA.
"Although the Australian banking system’s exposure to the commercial property sector declined following the global financial crisis, and the recent lending has not increased its share of banks’ domestic assets, risks in this area appear to be building.
"Investor demand for both new and existing commercial property developments has been strong, despite weakening leasing conditions in a number of market segments.
"Particular caution around collateral valuations is warranted in the current environment of declining property yields.
"Lenders should also be mindful of the collective effects of strong lending activity within particular market segments, even if individual borrowers appear to be of low risk.
It noted at this stage, competitive pressures have not induced a material easing in non-price housing lending standards.
"The composition of new mortgage finance remains skewed to investors, however, particularly in the largest cities.
"Ongoing strong speculative demand would tend to amplify the run-up in housing prices and increase the risk that prices in at least some regions might fall significantly later on.
"In the first instance, the consequences of such a downturn in prices are more likely to be macroeconomic in nature because the effects on household wealth and spending would be spread more broadly than just on the recent property purchasers. However, the further housing prices fall in that scenario, the greater the chance that lenders would incur losses on their housing loans.
"At the margin, the recent decline in mortgage interest rates can be expected to boost demand for housing further, though it will also make it easier for existing borrowers to service their debts.
"Indicators of household stress are currently at low levels, but could start to increase if labour market conditions weaken further than currently envisaged"
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