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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Central Equity has appointed Brookfield Multiplex to construct Australis Melbourne Apartments on Little Lonsdale Street.
The Melbourne CBD development, at 601 Little Lonsdale Street, is a $135 million project from Central Equity.
The 46 level glass facade tower will include one, two and three bedroom apartments, as well as a number of penthouses in the <a href="https://australisapartments.com.au/?id=03&amp;gclid=CLWY3KvK0MICFU1wvAodYLkA1g" target="_blank">Australis </a>tower.
Residents will have access to an indoor heated swimming pool, a gym and a grand foyer with concierge.
Graham Cottam, regional managing director Victoria for Brookfield Multiplex, said that Central Equity has a relationship with Brookfield Multiplex.
"Central Equity is a market leader and pioneer in the Melbourne development arena and we are proud of our ongoing relationship," said Cottam.
In fact, they have completed 14 apartment buildings for the development company, with another three currently under construction, including Southbank Grand Apartments and Melbourne One Apartments.
These apartment developments include Southbank One Apartments, City Tempo Apartments, Mainpoint Apartments, Southbank Towers, Boulevarde Apartments, Sovereign Apartments, Melbourne Tower Apartments, Kings Park on Southbank and City Tower Apartments.
Australis is set to be a complex construction, located adjacent to Central Equity’s Melbourne One apartment tower construction site – which will be a 47 level tower.
Some apartments will include reverse cycle air conditioning and double glazing. Many will have parking available.
One bedroom apartments with a balcony and air conditioning start from $429,000. One bedroom plus study with a balcony and air conditioning are priced from $484,000.
Two bedroom apartments with one or two bathrooms are priced from $595,000.
Penthouses are available on the 45th floor, with three bedrooms and two car parks, priced from $1.65 million.
All the three bedroom apartments, including two bathrooms and a car park, are currently sold out. They were priced around the $880,000 mark.
Completion for Australis is expected for late 2016.
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Brookfield Multiplex to build Little Lonsdale Street’s Australis

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The strong Sydney property market in 2014 means it is taking 10 months longer to get into the market than it did during 2013. 
Sydney is the most difficult capital city in Australia for first time buyers to enter the property market, with deposit savings times now approaching seven years for couples, said Ian Rakhit, Bankwest's head of specialist banking said.
The sixth annual Bankwest First Time Buyer Deposit Report revealed it will take 6.7 years for first time buyers in Sydney to save a home deposit for a median priced property.
"This is an increase of 0.8 years (approximately 10 months) on the same point in 2013," said Rakhit.
"The jump in savings time is largely attributed to a 15.4% year-on-year increase in median home values."
First time buyers in Sydney now need to save a $165,100, 20% deposit to purchase a median priced property.
"This is $40,000 more than the next most expensive capital city, Melbourne ($126,200), and considerably more than the average capital city deposit of $104,813," Rakhit said.
“New South Wales continues to see high levels of population growth, which has a direct impact on housing demand and affordability.” 
“This affects everyone in the housing market, but it certainly makes the first step onto the property ladder tough for Sydney-siders."
There are now 12 local government areas (LGAs) in Sydney where it would take a couple more than 10 years to save for a home deposit, which equates to a record 28% of total LGAs for the Sydney region.
<img src="/images/2014/12/18/bankwest-dec-19-one.jpg" alt="">
Source: Bankwest
A further 44% of Sydney LGAs have savings times of over six years. Only 12 Sydney LGAs offer savings times between two to four years, while 16% would take four to six years.
Mosman remains the most difficult suburb to break into for first time buyers, requiring 14.2 years to save a deposit. The second most difficult suburb is Woollahra, where savings would take 13.8 years.
While Sydney remains Australia’s most expensive capital city for first time buyers, the rest of New South Wales offers much more affordable properties, with a couple on an average income taking 4.8 years to save the $112,700 required for a home deposit.
There are 37 LGAs in New South Wales (25% of the total of 149) where the average first time buyer couple would have to save for less than two years to raise a 20% deposit for their first house. Central Darling in Far West New South Wales has the shortest savings time in the state, taking 0.7 years (eight months) for a couple to save the $13,600 required for a house deposit.
“As first time buyers find themselves priced out of inner Sydney, regional alternatives may become more appealing. If first time buyers are willing to look outside the typical hot-spots there are still good deals to be found,” Rakhit said.
Nationally, first time buyers are being forced to save for longer as the median value of houses outpaces salary growth. On average, Australian first time buyers will now take 4.1 years to save a 20% deposit for a house, up from 3.9 years in 2013.
<img src="/images/2014/12/18/bankwest-dec-19-two.jpg" alt="">
Source: Bankwest
Despite a rapid increase in the median price of housing across Australia, wages among first time buyers have only grown by 2.6% over the year, leaving first home saver incomes lagging behind rising house prices.
“This year’s report reveals an ongoing and increasing trend in the amount of time it takes to save for a first home in Australia. At the same time, those who are in a position to join the property ladder this year will do so a time when the average price of houses is showing strong growth,” Rakhit said.
A large part of the growth in national housing prices can be attributed to low interest rates, with standard variable rates currently at the lowest level since 2009. The current average rate of 5.9% per annum is well below the average rate of 7.3% seen over the past 10 years, he said.
"While low interest rates may make it easier for home owners to service their loans, they can also make it more difficult for first time home buyers to save for a first home deposit," he said.
"For a couple saving their money in a high interest online savings account, the average interest rate has been 2.5% over the past 12 months, down from 3.17% in 2013, and the average rate of 4.69% over the past 10 years."
The report quantifies how long it would take a first time buyer to save a 20% deposit based on local incomes and local house prices and the level of the First Home Owners Grant where available by state. Data has been sourced from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Wage and Salary Earner Statistics for Small Areas, the ABS Wage Price Index, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and Residex.
Deposit savings times have been calculated on the basis of a first time buyer couple setting aside 20% of their combined pre-tax income annually. The calculation assumes the savings are deposited into an online savings account each month and earn interest on this basis.
A full list of results for 465 LGAs across Australia is available in the Bankwest First Time Buyer Deposit Report 2014, which is available at <a href="https://www.bankwest.com.au" target="_blank">www.bankwest.com.au.</a>
<img src="/images/2014/12/18/bankwest-dec-19-three.jpg" alt="">
Source: Bankwest
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10 extra months needed to save for Sydney first home deposit in 2014: Bankwest

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Investing in property can prove financially rewarding. It often proves less volatile than shares or other investments.
With property you can earn rental income and benefit from capital growth and many property expenses can be offset for tax purposes but to ensure the property you purchase is a wise investment, it’s essential to have a clear strategy and conduct the appropriate due diligence.
When formulating your investment strategy it’s important to consider factors including whether you want to buy a house or a unit, the value of the land, the suburb’s future outlook and whether you want to buy off the plan or pre-established. For the inexperienced these considerations can be an overwhelming.
To make an informed decision and achieve the maximum value from your investment, seeking professional advice is invaluable. Engaging a buyer’s advocate to help you find and secure a property that meets your personal investment needs is one way to do this. For those not wishing to engage a buyer’s advocate, there are property investment guides available to ensure you know what to look for when considering potential properties.
Failure to conduct the necessary research can result in purchasing a property that isn’t investment-grade. In fact, most potential investors are unaware that fewer than 5% of properties on the market at any given time are specifically suited for long-term investment.
There are two simple yet strategic considerations often overlooked are opting for a property with off-street parking and avoiding main roads.
While off-street parking adds a premium to the purchase price for properties within 10 kilometres of Melbourne, it also contributes to higher rents, stronger capital growth and shorter vacancy periods. Factors such as these can be the difference between a profitable venture and a financial loss.
While there are many benefits to investing in property, to achieve the maximum return from your investment, it pays to do your research and seek independent advice to ensure you are informed and researching strategically.
Greville Pabst is CEO of <a href="https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=1&amp;ved=0CEAQFjAA&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wbpproperty.com%2F&amp;ei=Jb4hUevODOyamQX6mIGYDQ&amp;usg=AFQjCNH0u8Ji9ymluq8AKARfB-KjHZ-aFA&amp;sig2=DNsIKQR7tQj4PtYuiJOHPA&amp;bvm=bv.42553238,d.dGY" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">WBP Property Group.</a>
WBP Property Group’s 'The Essential Guide to Investing in Property' is available at <a href="https://www.wbpproperty.com/">www.wbpproperty.com</a>.
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Preparing to start your property investment adventure

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I thought as my final story before we close for the year and take a little break, I'd share with you a case study on one of our best property development results for 2014.
The development strategy: House renovation, Torrens title subdivision, three bedroom, two bathroom duplex construction, strata subdivision.
What an adventure this development was. We started our journey after locating a fabulous three bedroom house on large block of land for our lovely clients Lean and Alex, a very hard working couple and savvy property investors wanting to boost their portfolio.
On the land there was room to build a three bedroom, two bathroom duplex facing a secondary street. 
<img src="/images/2014/12/19/IMG_9546.jpg" alt="">
Property Bloom negotiated a nice discount off the purchase price and terms including a low deposit and extended settlement with access to start our renovations.
Our main concern was drainage and vehicle access to the secondary street as it was not a certainty that council would approve our orientation of the duplex because there was a small section that could be classified as a laneway that led to the secondary street.  However, there was some existing guttering that had been completed by a developer a few blocks up and a stormwater drain within a few meters to direct our run off to.  
To add to the complication, a new local environmental plan (LEP) and development control plan (DCP) came into effect during our settlement period. We had to ensure our plans would meet all the new requirements.
It was decided that we would lodge a development application (DA) with two stages; firstly a two lot Torrens title subdivision and the second stage to construct the duplex. If we lodged a DA for a three unit development (including the existing house) we'd need to provide space for visitor parking and complete certain upgrades to the house that would not necessarily increase its value but would be costly. By subdividing first we could maximise the area for the duplex and make it more spacious. It was a more lengthy and complicated process, but gave a far better design result.
We used the settlement period to complete the house renovations and work on the concept plan for the duplex. The house was leased at a strong rent which offset holding costs whilst we worked on the duplex design, planning and construction phases.
After much research and several meetings with council we lodged our DA.
The DA process was frustratingly long which we put down to the planners also getting their heads around the new LEP and DCP requirements. Finally we received the consent but then found conditions around the timing of when the subdivision should be registered that we wanted amended. We wanted to start construction before the subdivision was registered which would be a much quicker process. So we lodged a Section 96 application and were granted permission for the subdivision to be registered before the release of the occupation certificates, so after constructing was completed, this saved valuable time.
The actual construction went very smoothly thanks to our wonderful builder and our clients even received some credits for provisional sums that were not needed.
Property Bloom set up a relationship with a national housing group that required new properties to lease to their government tenants, so our client received rent from the date of handover and are on a long term lease with this agency. 
<img src="/images/2014/12/19/IMG_9536.jpg" alt="">
Here's the actual financial results of this project:
<ul>
<li>Total cost including house purchase, stamp duty, legal, renovations, design and planning process, subdivision and turnkey construction: $693,574</li>
<li>Total valuations on completion, including house and two three bedroom villas: $840,000</li>
<li>Equity created: $146,426</li>
<li>Gross yield: 8% </li>
</ul>
Our client's portfolio was boosted by three properties created from one.
I hope you've enjoyed our stories this year.  I wish all our readers and the wonderful people at Property Observer a safe, relaxing and happy Christmas. 
May 2015 bring you much joy and happiness, and a maybe a shiny new property development.
<a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au" target="_blank">www.propertybloom.com.au</a>
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One of our best 2014 property development results

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The housing market is moving into the 2015 calendar year with some substantial momentum, with dwelling values 8.5% higher compared with a year ago across the combined capitals.  
The growth comes on a backdrop of slowing conditions though, with the annual rate of capital gain peaking early in the year at 11.5% over the twelve months ending April. 
While values are still rising at a healthy rate, at least at a high level and in trend terms, we anticipate that 2015 will see the housing market dynamic shift geographically. 
<ul>
<li>Sydney</li>
</ul>
Housing market conditions have been nation leading over the current cycle with dwelling values up by 31% over the cycle to date.  The rate of capital gain is slowing down though, after the annual rate of growth peaked in April last year at 16.7%. 
By the end of 2014 we expect the annual rate of growth will have slowed to approximately 12.5%.  We expect the trend towards a more sustainable rate of capital gain to continue over the 2015 due to natural affordability constraints that are becoming increasingly evident in the market, as well as a reduction in investor demand which will likely be attributable to the low yield environment as well as tougher investment lending requirements from the banking sector.
<ul>
<li>Melbourne</li>
</ul>
The Melbourne housing market has played second fiddle to Sydney’s rate of capital gain over the current growth cycle, with values moving a cumulative 17.6% higher by the end of November this year.  The rate of annual growth across the Melbourne housing market has been slowing since January when dwelling values had moved 11.9% higher over the 12 month period. 
By the end of 2014 we expect the annual rate of capital gain to have drifted back to approximately 8%.  This slowing trend is likely to continue through 2014 as investor demand is dampened by the low rental yield scenario as well as tighter finance controls around investment lending from the banking sector. 
New housing supply across the inner city area of Melbourne and the outer fringes has been sufficient when compared with population growth, which is also likely to soften the level of capital gains over the coming year.
<ul>
<li>Brisbane</li>
</ul>
Brisbane (along with Adelaide and Hobart) is one of only three capital cities where the annual rate of capital gain is likely to be higher this year than it was last year.  We are expecting the annual rate of capital gain to finish the year around the 7% mark, compared with a 5.1% capital gain over the 2013 calendar year. 
With the rate of capital gain holding relatively firm over the second half of 2014, fewer affordability pressures and better rental yields than Sydney or Melbourne, we are expecting growth in Brisbane dwelling values to outperform the capital city average over the coming year.
<ul>
<li>Adelaide</li>
</ul>
Despite the uncertainty in the local economy, the Adelaide housing market is likely to finish the 2014 calendar year with a higher rate of capital gain compared with the 2013 calendar year. 
We are expecting Adelaide values will have increased by approximately 3.5% in 2014 compared with a growth rate of 2.8% over 2013.  Transaction numbers have been rising over the second half of the year indicating a rise in buyer demand, affordability pressures are relatively tame and rental yields are higher than what can typically be found in Sydney and Melbourne. 
While we aren’t expecting values to surge across Adelaide in 2015, a steady market with values continuing to show a modest rise is the likely outcome.
<ul>
<li>Perth</li>
</ul>
The Perth housing market moved through the peak of its growth cycle in December 2013 when then annual rate of growth was recorded at 9.9%.  Since then the annual rate of growth has drifted substantially lower and we expect by the end of 2014 the annual rate of growth will be closer 1%.  
Population growth into Western Australia has slowed sharply which is reducing demand for housing at a time when there is a large amount of new detached housing approved for construction. 
Additionally, the previously strong Western Australian economy is progressively weakening as the pipeline of large infrastructure projects winds down.  Dwelling values are likely to continue their weak trend and may potentially end the next calendar year lower.
<ul>
<li>Hobart</li>
</ul>
The Hobart housing market has been the weakest of any capital city post GFC.  In fact, Hobart dwelling values remain 3.9% lower than what they were at the beginning of 2009. 
More recently, housing market conditions have started to improve across Hobart. Transaction numbers have recorded a sharp rise from a low base and dwellings show a remarkable level of affordability compared to other capital cities and gross rental yields are the second highest of any capital city after Darwin.
Dwelling values are likely to finish the 2014 calendar year about 6% higher, and as demand from lifestyle buyers continues to rise, we expect Hobart home values to continue their moderate trend higher during 2015.
<ul>
<li>Darwin</li>
</ul>
The Darwin housing market has been a solid long term performer, recording the highest rate of capital gain over the past decade across the capital cities.  Dwelling values have increased by 17.5% over the length of the current growth cycle, however growth in dwelling values has been trending lower over the second half of 2014. 
The 2014 calendar year is likely to see Darwin dwelling values increase by approximately 1.5%.  Prospects for further growth over 2015 are diminishing due to a wind down in the major infrastructure projects that are currently underway in Darwin. 
The Darwin housing market is still providing the highest gross rental yields of any capital city market, however it is likely investor demand will taper in line with capital growth.
<ul>
<li>Canberra</li>
</ul>
The National Capitals’ housing market saw a material slowdown over the second half of 2014 with dwelling values likely to finish the second half the calendar year approximately 1% lower. 
Uncertainty surrounding the local labour market, federal government job cuts and potentially an oversupply of housing are all factors that are likely to contribute flat to falling housing values during 2015.
<ul>
<li>Regionally</li>
</ul>
We are expecting ‘lifestyle’ markets to continue their bounce back in buyer demand and values.  At the same time, the downturn in commodity prices and mining related infrastructure spending is likely to continue to dampen housing markets across resource intensive regions.
Central to housing market performance will be the direction of interest rates.  There is growing debate that the next rates movement may be down rather than up.  A further reduction in the cash rate will bring mortgage rates even lower than their current record low settings. 
Theoretically, lower rates should provide a boost to housing market conditions, however, if this stimulus does transpire, it is likely to be balanced by pervasively low consumer confidence and softer labour markets which show unemployment is already at its highest level in a decade and forecast by Treasury to move higher over the coming months.
Additionally, the impact of the recent APRA announcement around investment lending may act to restrict the availability of finance to investors.  The banking sector will be under scrutiny to keep growth in investor loans at slower than 10% pace of growth which is likely to have some downwards pressure on investor related housing demand.
Overall we are expecting another solid year of housing market conditions and further capital gains, albeit at a more sustainable rate that what we have seen over 2014.
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The nation's housing dynamic is set to shift: CoreLogic's 2015 outlook

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According to CoreLogic RP Data, Melbourne now has 52 suburbs with a median house value in excess of $1 million – the data covers the 12 months ending in September.
Melbourne’s most expensive suburb remains <a href="/news">Toorak</a>, with a median house value of $2.92 million. The median sale price, which reflects the prices paid over the last year has for the first time, exceeded $3 million. This indicates a slightly more expensive segment of Toorak has been selling over the last year.
Toorak will clearly be the city’s first $3 million dollar suburb, its just a matter of when.
There are three other suburbs with medians in excess of two million: <a href="/news">Deepdene</a>, <a href="/news">Canterbury</a> and <a href="/news">Kooyong</a>.
From sales volumes perspective, the highest was in <a href="/news">Brighton</a> followed by <a href="/news">Balwyn North</a>, <a href="/news">Kew</a>, <a href="/news">Glen Iris</a> and <a href="/news">Camberwell</a>.
Putting aside the cost, the million dollar suburb that proved the easiest to buy into was Deepdene were 14% of houses sold in the last year. In contrast <a href="/news">Fairfield</a> was a tightly held suburb with only 2.8% of houses selling.
Two new suburbs in the list are <a href="/news">Prahran </a>and <a href="/news">Williamstown</a>. The median value of a house in Williamstown – the second suburb in the west to reach this level was $1,002,000. Prahran’s median for a house is now $1 million.
There are 565 auctions scheduled this week in Melbourne compared to 531 for the same time last year. This is the last week for the year in which there are expected to be a substantial volume of auctions. Until early February next year there will be a small number of auctions weekly, mostly outside of the metropolitan area.
With one week to go this year the auction market has seen more homes sold by more people. The clearance rate for 2014 is likely to be marginally lower, around 68.6%, than 2013 when it was 69.2%. With one week to go there have been 43,298 auctions held, 17.8% more than last year and 29,632 homes selling.
Weeks with over 1,000 auctions used to be a rarity, but with 22 occurring this year they are now a regular feature of the market.
In the private sale market conditions continue to be healthy for sellers. On a citywide basis, the time on market results for houses sold at private sale was stable at 31 days over the last week and vendor discounting was also stable at -5%.
Key data
<ul>
<li>Clearance rate week ending 14 December: 68.6%</li>
<li>Melbourne auctions expected week ending 21 December: 565</li>
<li>Melbourne private sales time on market week ending 14 December: 31 days (houses)</li>
<li>Melbourne vendor discounting market week ending 14 December: -5% (houses)</li>
<li>Listings being prepared for market are 1.3% lower in month ending 14 December (seasonally adjusted)</li>
</ul>
Photo of Chapel Street, Prahran courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
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Prahran joins million dollar club in Victoria: Melbourne auction preview

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Nationwide growth in 2014 has been under scrutiny, however outside of Melbourne, Sydney and, to a lesser extent, Brisbane, growth has been subdued, according to the Housing Industry Association’s Residential Construction – Looking Towards 2015 report.
Noting that the focus on dwelling price growth this past year as “included stoking fears of a housing bubble and inaccurately labelling negative gearing as the policy of evil” the report indicates that there have been enormous and widely disparate growth outcomes across geographic areas that will likely persist into next year.
While capital city dwelling values, when calculated together, increased by 8.5% in the 12 months to November 2014, it was Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane recording the uptick at 13.2%, 8.3% and 6.0% annual growth respectively.
“The situation was far more subdued, if not weak, in the remaining capitals, with annual growth in dwelling values ranging from 5.2% in Hobart to less than 2% in Perth, Darwin and Canberra,” the report explains.
When adjusting for inflation, the outcome is largely flat to negative. Regional Australia as a whole has also not seen any substantial value growth.
Already, a peak in April 2014 has been noted, and: “Against a backdrop of falling real household income, the rate of growth in home values is projected to trend down throughout 2015, although the trajectory would be influenced by any further reductions to borrowing costs.”
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Australia’s disparate housing market growth to continue in 2015: HIA

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The third stage of Australand’s Westmeadows development Valley Park has been released with residents now moving into their homes. The first settlements were finalised in late-November.
Having opened the sales office for <a href="https://www.australand.com.au/Projects/Valley-Park" target="_blank">Valley Park</a> in August, with an official launch day in September, more than 30 houses have sold this year with a diverse housing mix resulting in a number of local buyers.
The properties include one bedroom apartments, three, four and five bedroom houses, some freestanding, some townhouses.
<img src="/images/2014/12/18/valley%20park%20dec%2018%20two.jpg" alt="">
Craig Muse, development director of built form at Australand, said that it is located 17 kilometres north west of Melbourne CBD. On completion is will be a 320-lot development.
“The fastest to sell has been the Wattle – a three-level, three bedroom home that features two living rooms and decks on its first and second floors,” said Muse.
“Popular with owner-occupiers, buyers tell us the Wattle’s size is great value for money, especially when compared to similar homes in other areas within the northern corridor.”
<img src="/images/2014/12/18/valley%20park%20dec%2018%20three.jpg" alt="">
The Wattle houses also feature views of the valley, with some houses maximising this with spacious balconies.
One bedroom apartments are priced from $295,000, with three bedroom homes from $395,000.
There is currently a proposed multi-use community centre with management to be introduced to build the community.
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Australand’s Valley Park stage three released as first residents move in

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When decorating an apartment for Christmas, it’s worth remembering your responsibilities and to seek clarification from your body corporate, according to Archers Body Corporate Management.
Apparently, certain decorations and lights can break the building’s by-laws and require approval.
Archer’s strata manager Wayne Hewitt said that the majority of unit owners and tenants are unaware of the repercussions.
“Most bodies corporate have by-laws prohibiting additions to the exterior of the building, including hanging Christmas decorations and lights from balconies and windows,” Hewitt said.
He notes that the body corporate can advise on the extent of the decorations allowed, how long they can be displayed for and where is appropriate to have them.
Here are their five Christmas decoration tips:
<ul>
<li>Check with your body corporate before putting up your Christmas decorations to ensure you’re not in breach of any by-laws. 
</li>
<li>Before you install Christmas lights, check over the cables to ensure they are not faulty. Faulty lights can be the cause of fires which can not only affect your property but the entire building. 
</li>
<li>If you have approval to decorate your balcony ensure that decorations are secured well so they won’t be a hazard in strong wind or summer storms. 
</li>
<li>Ensure that your decorations do not block any walkways or emergency exit points of the building and are not on common property. 
</li>
<li>Make sure you adhere to your body corporate’s prescribed time lines and guidelines for how long decorations can be displayed.</li>
</ul>
Source: Archers Body Corporate Management
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Five tips for decorating an apartment safely

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The Raith House residential development site at Bradbury has been sold for $2.41 million.
Capital Developments bought the 2.2 hectare offering from Government Property NSW.
It was offered through John Macree and Dylan McEvoy at JLL.
It comes with the heritage listed home, <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-bradbury-501368135" target="_blank">Raith House at 74 Fern Avenue</a>, offered after fire damage and ongoing vandalism.
The Indian bungalow-style house was built for H.J.M. Merewether and his bride, Wilhelmina Gore, daughter of Campbelltown bank Manager, A.J. Gore. 
The building was designed by Wardell &amp; Denning in 1903 and built by D. McIntyre and Sons of Sydney at a cost of 3000 pounds. 
Raith Lark Hill Hostel was established by the Child Welfare Department in 1964 to serve the Campbelltown district.
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