Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

Joel Robinson

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a> has wasted little time reshaping one of South Brisbane's most significant undeveloped apartment sites after acquiring the property earlier this year.&nbsp;

McNab has lodged plans to scrap an existing approval for two 30-storey towers and instead deliver a single 28-storey residential building, preserving part of the site for a future development opportunity.

The proposal, lodged over <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-peel-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">64 Peel Street and 9 Cordelia Street</a>, is for a residential-led mixed-use development comprising 124 apartments above a landscaped podium, alongside a boundary realignment that preserves part of the land for a future residential project.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="743bf564-3f8f-45fc-b8d3-bbf18f5b628f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20Peel%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=EhCxGrVn_VFH3qTbKnI4WppGwaMnOn0t" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, the development will deliver 119 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments across 23 residential levels. A five-level podium will accommodate 135 car spaces, while the ground floor will include a 66 sqm commercial tenancy, an activated residential lobby with work-from-home spaces, and a publicly accessible landscaped plaza linking Cordelia and Peel streets.&nbsp;

Communal amenities will span Level 6 and the rooftop, including indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, kitchen and dining areas, lawn space, sauna, steam room and yoga facilities.

The application also proposes a boundary realignment to create a standalone 1,290 sqm development lot while retaining an adjacent parcel for future redevelopment, allowing the balance of the site to contribute additional housing over time.

Hayball said the architecture has been shaped by the site's elevated corner position at the intersection of Peel and Cordelia streets and Brisbane's subtropical climate.

The design incorporates generous landscaped setbacks, a masonry podium wrapped with planting, large north-facing balconies, and a slender tower profile intended to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and long-range views. The rooftop has been conceived as a wellness-focused retreat overlooking Brisbane, with amenities positioned to capture views towards Mount Coot-tha and the CBD.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f99e84-6ad8-4a87-82d1-869685b754d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20tower%20perspective.png?VersionId=Gw0IuJaSAlk.tvGBxInhZOcQAdIB..2b" />

The planning submission positions the proposal as a response to both changing market conditions and Brisbane's Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning reforms.

McNab acquired the site after the previous approval was granted, with the existing scheme no longer reflecting current residential market demands, economic conditions, construction challenges, construction efficiencies or the quality of development outcome now being pursued, the planning report noted.

McNab continues to expand its residential development pipeline across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The developer recently launched The Tannery in West End, securing more than 60 per cent of apartments before the project's public release. It is also delivering Elements Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Lucia Highgate Hill, an eight-apartment boutique development overlooking the Brisbane River.

McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower

A steeply sloping Bellevue Hill site is set to accommodate a new mid-rise apartment development, with plans lodged for 20 homes that respond to the site's dramatic topography.

The proposal for the consolidated land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/138a-140-bellevue-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">138A-140 Bellevue Road</a> has been designed by Sydney architecture practice Common Office, which has used the site’s substantial fall to distribute the building’s scale and unlock 20 apartments without presenting the full height to the street.&nbsp;

“The unique design strategy leverages the site’s substantial topographical fall to facilitate increased density, presenting a seven-storey profile to Bellevue Road while rising to 10 storeys at the rear,” Common Office said in its architectural design report.

The apartment mix spans one, two, three- and four-bedroom residences. Four two-bedroom apartments are designated as affordable housing, while the plans also include two adaptable dwellings. The mix is majority three-beds, with the typical three-bed apartment offering around 144 sqm internally, with balconies of around 15 sqm.

The affordable housing component represents 15 per cent of the residential floor area and allows the project to access additional height and floor space under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions. The site also falls within the inner area of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy because it is within 400 metres walking distance of Double Bay Town Centre.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1230d0f-3bfa-4a11-abaf-0928c66ef345" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da.png?VersionId=dZeMK3P.OutGjN8ycjsxm8uNsj_QFWQv" />

Common Office has arranged the building around a masonry podium and a lighter upper volume, drawing on two recurring elements of Bellevue Hill’s established architecture: sandstone bases and the vertical proportions of local Inter-war Art Deco apartment buildings.

“The proposal is governed by a holistic design language that reconciles the solid horizontal masonry of the neighbourhood’s podiums with the elegant verticality of its Art Deco heritage,” the architect said.

“The building maintains a consistent rhythmic logic utilising deep recesses and a sophisticated material transition to break down the 10-storey scale into a series of articulated, human-scale volumes.”

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0147f503-1af1-4d51-97fb-c2f1cba63a9d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20bldg.png?VersionId=GoW7q3NlK67OpnePXhk7zvklrlKb72Qc" />

Large-format sandstone tiles will define the lower levels, establishing a robust base that negotiates the change in elevation from Bellevue Road. Above, red-tinted precast concrete frames, recessed balconies, anodised aluminium screens and expanded metal details will create a more vertically expressed façade. Integrated planter beds will introduce greenery across balcony edges and recessed sections of the building.

The elongated northern façade has been divided into three recessed vertical masses to reduce its perceived length. Triangular window elements and metal privacy screens reference the geometry of nearby Art Deco buildings while controlling overlooking toward surrounding homes. The southern elevation will incorporate further privacy screening, landscaped edges and deep balconies to maintain light and ventilation.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8679cf1-18bc-4447-8a0f-0052b94ab83c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da%20rooftop.png?VersionId=5SQqQqRFf76rvE2p1TbxJSweMN70AIbc" />

Private and communal landscaping is distributed throughout the development. A landscaped garden apartment is positioned within the lower portion of the site, while a communal terrace on Level 5 will include a central timber deck, barbecue facilities, resident planting plots and areas for outdoor dining and informal gatherings.

Common Office described the terrace as an elevated sanctuary designed to capture district views and sunlight. Its planting strategy incorporates endemic species associated with the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, extending the landscape vertically through the building and providing habitat for local flora and fauna.

A second communal outdoor area is proposed at roof level, with built-in seating, paved gathering areas and perimeter planting.

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction. Positive Investment Enterprise is delivering the 16-apartment Kew Palm House on Birriga Road, while Chanine Developments is also under construction at Florian, a 36-apartment project on Banksia Road.

&nbsp;

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction.

First Look: Apartment development pitched for Bellevue Hill, Double Bay fringe

South Brisbane's apartment pipeline continues to build momentum, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK Property Group</a> lodging plans for a 161-apartment tower on Montague Road as developers accelerate investment across the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

The proposal for 176–186 Montague Road would replace an existing office building with a 20-storey residential tower designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, adding to a growing pipeline of high-density projects reshaping one of Brisbane's fastest-evolving inner-city precincts.

The project has been conceived as a "living building", featuring a flowing tower form, extensive vertical landscaping, and generous communal spaces that respond to the evolving Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

TRK Property Group Development Director Matt Kan said the project reflected the confidence developers have in South Brisbane's long-term future.

"South Brisbane is entering an incredibly exciting period, and we see Montague Road sitting right at the heart of that evolution," Kan said.

"With the former Visy site directly opposite us and significant investment planned throughout the broader Kurilpa precinct, there is a real sense of momentum around this part of the city and what it will become over the coming years.

"For TRK, this is an opportunity to be part of that next chapter and deliver a project that responds to where the precinct is heading, while contributing to the continued evolution of Brisbane's river edge."

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="590fe1ad-f892-4446-a679-80e33a16d029" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20tower%20facade.png?VersionId=uOJStrcKpyHFcPE1w6_9SMAFzVMCcZll" />

The scheme includes a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, incorporating multi-purpose rooms in selected residences to provide additional flexibility for home offices or expanded living areas. The proposed mix comprises 15 one-bedroom, 13 one-bedroom plus MPR, 73 two-bedroom, 26 two-bedroom plus MPR, 30 three-bedroom, and four four-bedroom apartments.

Rather than adopting a conventional rectilinear tower, COX Architecture has developed a sculpted form inspired by the movement of the Brisbane River.

"The proposal has been designed by COX Architecture as a 'living building' that responds to the site's riverine setting, floodplain history and evolving urban context within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct," the planning report states.

"The architectural form draws from the fluid nature of the Brisbane River, with a curved and undulating tower form that creates a varied architectural edge and avoids a conventional rectilinear tower expression."

The podium has also been designed as an architectural feature rather than a conventional parking structure, with cascading planting, screening and natural-toned materials softening its appearance. Resident parking is elevated above ground level to address the site's flood constraints, while habitable apartments sit above flood planning levels. Upper-level communal facilities are designed to accommodate shelter-in-place arrangements during major flood events.

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01fa15d0-90df-46c7-9555-7941fc45373c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20podium.png?VersionId=mHyua.w1pHGBt9qEdWzrlsv.leztUCwO" />

Communal amenity is a major focus of the proposal. Around 1,815 sqm of shared resident space is proposed across the ground floor, level 19 and the rooftop, including co-working areas, indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, wellness facilities, dining and gathering areas, lawn spaces, a rooftop pool and spa, and extensive landscaping. At street level, a landscaped forecourt and approximately 345 sqm of publicly accessible open space along Montague Road are intended to improve the pedestrian experience while activating the building's frontage.

The development will provide 163 car spaces, including 152 resident bays and 11 visitor spaces, together with 144 bicycle spaces incorporating resident storage, visitor parking, bicycle maintenance facilities and e-mobility charging infrastructure.

The site sits within one of Brisbane's fastest-changing inner-city precincts, less than two kilometres from the CBD and within easy reach of South Bank, West End, the Queensland Cultural Centre and extensive public transport connections. The Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning framework is encouraging higher-density residential development to help meet Brisbane's housing supply targets while supporting walkable, transit-oriented neighbourhoods.

TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans

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]

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

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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GUEST OBSERVATION
Saul Eslake, chief economist at Bank of America’s Merrill Lynch financial services division, released a chart last week that confirms the median house price in Australia is below implied price based on income growth and interest rates.
<img src="/images/2014/11/18/estlake-housing.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com.au/merrill-lynch-housing-price-growth-will-weaken-in-2015-2014-11" target="_blank">In Chris Pash’ article </a>published in Business Insider last week, Eslake is quoted as saying that “house prices will converge with ‘fair value’ estimates based on household income growth and mortgage rates” after an anticipated 3.5-4% increase in 2015, if there is no change in interest rates.
Eslake sees possible deceleration in growth of nominal prices, or even a decline in real prices, in 2016 as the Reserve Bank of Australia starts to raise interest rates.
Eslake’s finding that property prices are below fair value confirms conclusions from my own research I have been sharing with Property Observer readers since last year:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/finance/australian-property-prices-explained-independent-analyst/2014011367181/Page-1" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Australian property prices explained: Independent analyst</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/australian-property-prices-in-2014-and-beyond-a-peek-into-the-future/2014013167457" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Australian property prices in 2014 and beyond - a peek into the future</a></li>
<li>
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/crisis-of-confidence-or-crisis-of-affordability">Crisis of confidence or crisis of affordability?</a> 
</li>
</ul>
Saul Eslake is better known to the property industry observers as an avid critic of negative gearing on property and a frequent commentator on housing affordability issues.
Therefore I have nothing but praise for Saul that he was prepared to publish a piece of research that contradicts his previous, very strong stance, on these issues.
As John Maynard Keynes said: “When my information changes, I alter my conclusions. What do you do, sir?”
Since I have not seen this chart before, I can only assume it is just the latest revelation from the research that Eslake and his team at Merrill Lynch undertook recently.
I can only hope that Merrill Lynch will be prepared to fund further investigations into specific nuances of the Australian property market - for the benefit of their clients but also, as a by-product of their PR, to keep the Australian public informed with key findings.
I have no doubt that this research will only confirm that property prices in Australia are primarily driven by changes in incomes and interest rates, that affordability is not an issue for working Australians (i.e. as in most developed countries, is only an issue for specific underprivileged groups), that there is no bubble in the property market and that prices are well within expected range. And, of course, that negative gearing plays only a minor role, if at all, in the whole scheme of things.
In essence, all these are already proven by the above chart, but additional research would broaden the evidence.
Oh, and one more comment to finish off – it demonstrates that price-to-income measures, favourite with many economists, property commentators and some publications that purport to be a serious economic research, are grossly out of touch with the reality. But this fact is already well known to Property Observer readers from my previous articles.
I am looking forward to more research revelations from Saul Eslake and Merrill Lynch team. Thanks a lot for this first little gem!
It is a most welcome development and I sincerely hope that propagation of this and similar information in the public domain will bring balance to the debate on the state of the property market in Australia.
Arek Drozda is an independent property market analyst.
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The chart that proves property prices are undervalued

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An outright majority (55%) of consumers still expect house prices to rise over the next year with just under half expecting it to be a rise of up to 10%.
Just over 13% expect prices to fall according to the latest Westpac-Melbourne Institute Consumer House Price Expectations Index which rose 1.4% in November.
<img src="/images/2014/11/18/west-nov-18-one.jpg" alt="">
Westpac noted at 140.8 the Index is well down on the 164.2 reading this time last year but still in strongly positive territory and well above the 125 average of the past decade.
"As with the ‘time to buy a dwelling’ index, this measure also seems to be settling into a less optimistic but still positive range," the report noted.
<img src="/images/2014/11/18/west-nov-18-two.jpg" alt="">
Optimists still outnumber pessimists, though the sentiment points to a clear moderation in housing demand, it noted.
"While the investor segment remains an important exception, actual data on housing activity is also showing a clear moderation."
<img src="/images/2014/11/18/west-nov-18-three.jpg" alt="">
It noted big geographic differences with a weak reading for WA notable - given a clear drop-off in price momentum.
Despite interest rates at historic lows and a buoyant housing market, home owners are significantly more downbeat about Christmas spending, particularly those with a mortgage, the report found.
<img src="/images/2014/11/18/west-nov-18-four.jpg" alt="">
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Few people, but slightly more, believe house prices will fall: Westpac consumer index

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The new Mortgage Choice Happy As Index has found that 49.4% of Victorians are comfortable with their finances, with 28.6% noting they are uncomfortable.
Just over 20% considered themselves “neutral” with their finances.
Mortgage Choice spokesperson Jessica Darnbrough said that it was a pleasing result, pointing to the number of those committed to saving their money.
“When Victorians were asked how much of their after tax income they had managed to save this year, more than 40% said they had saved more than 16% of their after tax income,” said Darnbrough.
A further 10.8% said that they saved 21% to 25% of their income.
Less than 25% noted that they hadn’t saved at all.
“The index found that almost 40% of Victorians only worry about their finances when they have a ‘big financial commitment’,” she said. A total of 20% said that they think about finances on a ‘daily basis’.
The majority, at 59.8%, said that they were happy or extremely happy with their current lifestyle. This was a result only beaten by Queenslanders, with 63% citing themselves as happy or very happy with their current lifestyle.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Almost half of Victorians “financially comfortable”: Mortgage Choice Happy As Index

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The Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) has sold its East Melbourne headquarters to the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne.
The Archdiocese will look to house its central administration and various departments currently operating from multiple sites across Melbourne in the 11-level office building at 488 Albert Street property.
Industry House's heritage façade dates back to the first Baptist Chapel in the 1860s. The Catholic's new headquarters are next door to the Melbourne City Synagogue, the city’s oldest, which was consecrated in 1877.
No price has been revealed, but it was suggested during its marketing that it would fetch about $35 million if acquired as a pure office investment.
It also had the potential for alternative uses such as residential or as a hotel.
VECCI listed the property for sale after 12 years of ownership to facilitate plans to expand its operations in a CBD location.
“Of special appeal to the Archdiocese is the central location of the building so close to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and other nearby Catholic services including the Australian Catholic University, the Catholic Education Office, Catholic Theological College and St. Vincent’s Private and Public Hospitals,” Francis Moore, executive director administration of the Archdiocese of Melbourne said.
The building which has a lettable area of 6,822 square metre was sold by CBRE agents Kiran Pillai, Mark Wizel, Josh Rutman and Mark Coster.
The building is currently occupied by VECCI together with the Australian Catholic University and Medhealth.
After 12 years of ownership, VECCI chief executive Mark Stone said the proceeds from the sale will go toward the future acquisition of other property.
<img src="/images/2014/11/17/east%20melbourne%20nov%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
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Catholic Church buys VECCI Industry House, East Melbourne offices

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A preliminary weighted average clearance rate of 69% was recorded this week across capital cities compared to 63.5% last week and 67.4% this time last year.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141117-Capital-City.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4007]"><img src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141117-Capital-City-580x427.jpg" alt="RP Data auction market comment | Capital City" width="580" height="427"></a>
Auction volumes were 14% higher than this time last year due to increased listings in both Sydney and Melbourne. Higher stock levels are providing increased opportunities for buyers in capital cities, especially in Melbourne.
In Sydney the auction market returned to trend after the second highest volume this year. A preliminary clearance rate of 75.2% recorded compared to 68.1% last week and 75.3% last year.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141117-Sydney.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4007]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4009" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141117-Sydney-580x388.jpg" alt="RP Data auction market comment | Sydney" width="580" height="388"></a>
In Melbourne a preliminary clearance rate of 66.7% was recorded compared to 65.5% last week and 69% this time last year. Lower clearance rates have certainly been observed over the last three weeks. Analysis shows that they have returned to trend after what was in retrospect a strong early spring.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141117-Melbourne.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4007]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4010" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141117-Melbourne-580x382.jpg" alt="RP Data auction market comment | Melbourne" width="580" height="382"></a>
In Brisbane a preliminary clearance rate of 45.3% was recorded compared to 43.1% last week.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141117-Brisbane.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4007]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4011" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141117-Brisbane-580x387.jpg" alt="RP Data auction market comment | Brisbane" width="580" height="387"></a>
Adelaide recorded a clearance rate of 60.7% compared to 57.4% last week.
<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141117-Adelaide.jpg" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4007]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4012" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141117-Adelaide-580x382.jpg" alt="RP Data auction market comment | Adelaide" width="580" height="382"></a>
In Canberra a clearance rate of 66% was recorded.
In Perth a clearance rate of 66.7% was recorded.
In Tasmania 4 auction sales were recorded and 3 homes were passed in.
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rlarocca-zWhvjay44N

Auction volumes rise 14% on 2013: RP Data's national auction wrap

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The Sydney-based Crown Group has sold the final apartment in its seven-tower 653-apartment development - Top Ryde City Living.
It was a one bedroom apartment.
More than 600 residents now occupy the resort-style development, positioned on the vantage point above Top Ryde City Shopping Centre with views to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Blue Mountains and North Shore.
Crown Group Chief Executive Officer Iwan Sunito said the sale of the final apartment at Top Ryde City Living was an important milestone for Crown Group.
“For a development of this scale to sell out so shortly after completion is a testament to the high quality and luxury appeal we have worked to deliver,” he said.
Completed in August 2014, Sunito said Top Ryde City Living’s owners whom purchased early had experienced a "significant increase" in the value of their apartments.
One bedroom apartments initially sold for about $350,000 when Top Ryde City Living’s first apartments were offered for sale in 2011, while a one bedroom plus study apartment sold this month for $754,000.
Crown Group’s director of sales and marketing Adam Sparkes said Top Ryde City Living’s success came after a quick response to new apartments at every new release over the three-year timeframe given access to transport links, education, workplace hubs and retail.
Top Ryde City Living has been recognised by some of the most sought-after awards in the industry, most recently being named winner of best Outdoor Project at the 2014 HIA-CSR NSW Housing and Kitchen &amp; Bathroom Awards.
Its other accolades include 2013 Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) High Density Development Award, 2013 UDIA NSW President’s award and Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing award 2013.
The final stage of Top Ryde City Living, named Viva by Crown was launched for sale in August 2013.
Top Ryde City Living began construction of its seven towers in late 2010.
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Crown secures Top Ryde City Living sellout

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McGrath agent Tracey Dixon sold one <a href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-hunters-hill-nsw-2110/218123/?searchID=44483429" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">of Hunters Hill's historic Didier Joubert-built treasures</a> (pictured above) pre-auction.
No price was given but Property Observer wouldn't be surprised if it fetched $5 million.
It was among the 58 pre-auction sales notched up amid the 164 McGrath weekend offerings. Some 21 of the 58 pre-auction sales were price undisclosed.
Elsewhere some 32 of the 91 weekend auctions conducted by Cooley Auctions were sold before, Damien Cooley told 2GB's Ray Hadley Saturday program.
Pre-auction sales are increasingly utilised as the sellers take the best on offer.
Auctions have noted the number of registered bidders has been in decline as auction volumes have picked up in spring.
"Bookings for 6 and 13 December certainly indicate we are in for a very strong auction month in Sydney particularly in the regions of Western Sydney and Northern Districts/Hills where auction volume seem to be at a robust level," auctioneer Rocky Bartolotto at Auction Services said.
It is not to say there aren't still big numbers for some listings. A 5 Marion St, Leichhardt the $990,000 sale was $40,000 over reserve after 12 registered parties gathered to secure a property through Alfio Musumeci at Ray White, which was auctioned by Scott Dalton at Auction Services.
The Bungalow, the Hunters Hill property occupying a 2,276 square metre block at 22 Avenue, was a Victorian sandstone home built in 1879 by Didier Joubert on farmland originally owned by Mary Reibey. 
It was offered by cardiac surgeon Dr Matthew Bayfield and Deputy Mayor paediatrician Dr Meredith Sheil had been hoping for offers of more than $4.25 million.
The sandstone cottage was owned by the Joubert family until 1941.
It last traded in 1999 for $1.7 million when sold by Dr Edmund Sweeney.
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Hunters Hill 1870s Didier Joubert home snapped up pre-auction

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There was a $3.3 million vendor bid when The Stables, the converted warehouse at Clovelly went to weekend auction.
Investment banker Jamie Garis, who until earlier this year was co-head of Greenhill Australia, and Artspace board member Julie Garis bought the two-storey home for $2.4 million in 2004 from the former TV producer and resort operator Henry Crawford and his wife, Nina.
Retaining the original hardwood ceiling beams, timber floors and a trapdoor for hay, it became a four-bedroom home with an office space, gymnasium, tandem garage, separate living areas and a plunge pool.
The Garises added a home cinema, a snooker room downstairs and a poolside sitting area.
McGrath's Chris Volpatti had issued a guide of $3.25 million plus.
The current owners have decked the four bedroom conversion out with contemporary Australian art, including pieces by David Bromley and Bill Henson. 
With Asian-inspired interiors, the home features a variety of undisguised materials, including original timber flooring, timber crossbeams and exposed brick walls.
{qtube vid:=xafIwZ_3vPE}
 
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The Stables, converted Clovelly warehouse passed in

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There are plenty of reasons to purchase property interstate.
You may want to diversify your portfolio to lower your risk profile. Perhaps you're planning a move next year, but you know that now is the right time to buy.
Or maybe you've heard that the next big up and coming suburb isn't on your doorstep, but 2,000 kilometres away.
Even if you are a seasoned property investor in your local area, there are some key differences between buying locally and purchasing further away.
Investing interstate can be difficult, especially if you're not experienced and you're looking to invest somewhere you haven't lived before.
If you're planning to buy property interstate, here's what you need to know.
Research
The initial steps of purchasing a property in a different state are much the same as buying one in your home town. As always, you should draw up your budget, think about your growth expectations, and pick out potential areas.
Your choice of area may be dictated by your future plans to move to the region, or simply growth potential. Whichever the case, you should always consider how well the region is serviced by local infrastructure (or how well it will be in the future), how its market is performing and how it fits with your budget. If you're buying somewhere you haven't lived before (or haven't lived in for a long time), your research should be even more comprehensive.
Once you've determined a location, you want to liaise with a local buyer's agent to help you inspect and purchase a property. Unless your agent is one with whom you have a long running relationship, it's best to still walk through any potential purchases yourself, rather than relying solely on their advice.
Vendor disclosure
Victoria:
Victorian vendors are tasked with providing buyers with a relatively comprehensive document called Section 32.
Prepared by a lawyer (or the vendor under legal instruction), Section 32 must provide true information about planning restrictions, services connected to the property, and any registered building work that's taken place in the last 10 years. Even if a property's been passed from owner to owner, registered building works will be covered under warranty for 10 years.
A vendor or lawyer knowingly provides any false information in the Section 32 document has committed a criminal offence, and could be penalised.
By law, vendors must provide the Section 32 document to buyers before the sale. Although it is considered relatively comprehensive, some will still wish to commission an independent inspection report from an expert, particularly if there are any concerns about structural problems with the property.
New South Wales:
NSW vendors have a similar process, with Schedule 1 Prescribed Documents. However, they're not required to be as comprehensive as Section 32, only including mortgages on the home, deeds and restrictions on land use.
For that reason, buyers are recommended by NSW Fair Trading to commission an independent inspection report before buying, at your cost.
A licensed builder, surveyor or architect (who should have professional indemnity cover) can carry out a general inspection. The cost of the report will depend on the size, age and condition of the property, and the consultant.
If you have concerns about hidden structural problems, plumbing, gasfitting, fireplaces, or electrical wiring – any part of the property in particular – you should engage a specialized inspector before buying. A general inspection will generally just involve a visual assessment.
South Australia:
If you're buying in South Australia, you should receive a Form 1 disclosure statement from the vendor's real estate agent at least 10 days before settlement in a private sale. If buying at auction, the Form 1 document must be available to view at the real estate agent's office for at least three days before the auction date. The date of the provision of the Form 1 document will influence the buyer's cooling off period.
Form 1 is similar to New South Wale's Schedule 1 Prescribed Documents, so buyers are recommended to have an independent expert carry out their own, more comprehensive, report. As always, make sure your inspector has professional indemnity insurance, in case you want to seek compensation if they make any errors.
Queensland
Currently, Queensland vendors aren't required to provide a compulsory disclosure statement to buyers for all properties, although body corporates should provide some information for those buying units, apartments or townhouses. An independent report from an expert is recommended.
Tasmania
If you're investing in Tasmania, you shouldn't expect a disclosure statement from vendors either. Instead, you'll need to pay an independent expert to take a tour of the property and prepare a report for you.
Northern Territory
The Northern Territory dumped its vendor disclosure requirements in 2012, so again, an independent inspection is recommended, as is a personal walk through a potential investment.
Western Australia
Selling agents in Western Australia should receive a Seller's Disclosure Statement from vendors, but there is no legal requirement to provide the information directly to buyers. However, as always, agents cannot misrepresent aspects of the property or mislead buyers, so make sure you ask lots of questions of the selling agent and have an independent report prepared.
Australian Capital Territory
Before a sale, ACT vendors have to provide relatively detailed information to prospective buyers. Sellers have to hand over an assessment of the physical condition of the property and an asbestos assessment. They must also disclose any restrictions to development on the site. In the Australian Capital Territory, buyers should also receive an energy efficiency rating statement and a pest inspection report, which aren't required in Victoria's Section 32.
Article continues on the next page. Please click below.
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Second thoughts: Cooling off
Though you may be used to a cooling off period ­– in which you can change your mind about purchasing a property and only have to pay a 0.25% of the purchase price or less – when purchasing property locally, don't expect the provision in every state.
Victoria:
You won't get a cooling off period for properties purchased at auction in Victoria. If purchasing a home on less than 20 hectares through a private sale, you'll get a three day cooling off period, but not if the sale occurs within three days of a planned auctions.
If you're represented by an agent, you also waive your right to a cooling off period.
Australian Capital Territory:
In the ACT, you receive a five day cooling off period for homes purchased through private sales, but not for auctions. Your cooling off period generally begins from the day you or your agent receives a copy of the sales contract that has been signed by both parties.
New South Wales:
Buyers in New South Wales who have acquired a property through private sale also get a five day cooling off period. You won't receive the allowance if buying at auction.
Queensland:
In Queensland, you should also receive a cooling off period if purchasing at private sale. The provision used to be detailed in a document separate from the contract, but is now incorporated into the contract itself. On the page where you sign, <a href="https://www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au/regulated-sectors/property/buying/ways-to-buy/buying-privately" target="_blank">you should read</a>:
"The contract may be subject to a five business day statutory cooling-off period. A termination penalty of 0.25% of the purchase price applies if the buyer terminates the contract during the statutory cooling-off period. It is recommended the buyer obtain an independent property valuation and independent legal advice about the contract and his or her cooling-off rights, before signing."
South Australia:
Private property sales South Australia come with a cooling off period of two days. If a Form 1 was given to the buyer before the sale, then the cooling off period commences on the date the contract is signed. If the Form 1 is served after the contract is signed, the cooling off period begins on the day the form is served. If you're purchasing a property through a company or by tender, you may not receive a cooling off period.
If you choose to back out of a purchase in the cooling off period, you must provide confirmation in writing.
Western Australia:
If you're buying in Western Australia, you will not receive a legally binding cooling off period. However, your agent or solicitor may be able to negotiate a cooling off period with the vendor, depending on your needs.
Tasmania:
Tasmanian properties also don't come with a cooling off period.
Land transfer taxes and stamp duty
Stamp duties change between states – don't make the mistake of calculating how much you would pay in your home state, or you'll face a surprise when you make your interstate buy.
Check out each state's revenue office website to estimate how much land transfer tax you can expect to pay.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/sro/sronav.nsf/Home+Page/SRO%7EHome+Page?open" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Victoria</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.osr.nsw.gov.au/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">New South Wales</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.revenuesa.sa.gov.au/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">South Australia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.finance.wa.gov.au/cms/section.aspx?id=209" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Western Australia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.treasury.nt.gov.au/TaxesRoyaltiesAndGrants/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Northern Territory</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.osr.qld.gov.au/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Queensland</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.revenue.act.gov.au/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Australian Capital Territory</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.revenuesa.sa.gov.au/generic-pages/i-am-a-property-ownerbuyer" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Tasmania</a></li>
</ul>
Getting help
There are a range of experts who can assist you with an interstate purchase and help alleviate the costs of travelling back and forth.
Conveyancers or specialist lawyers can help prepare and lodge your legal documents (including your contract), handle your deposit, research the property and calculate your expenses. They can also assist in the settlement process.
A buyer's agent can help you inspect properties and do a lot of the footwork for you. They may also be able to refer you to reputable local experts to help carry out inspections.
Make sure you communicate honestly and often with those helping you invest interstate, and make the most of the experts available.
While buying property interstate can seem like a daunting task, there are a lot of benefits to developing your property portfolio beyond the bounds of your local neighbourhood. Make sure you contact reputable, independent experts and do your homework.
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Buying interstate: What you need to know

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A surge in tax depreciation schedules requested in a number of regional areas has been noted by tax depreciation company BMT’s managing director Brad Beer.
Beer said that rural and regional locations appear to have attracted strong investment activity over the past financial year.
But where have they been targeting?
<ul>
<li>Port Pirie<a href="/news"></a>, South Australia</li>
</ul>
Topping the list is Port Pirie, where a 169% increase in the number of tax depreciation scheduled was recorded.
<ul>
<li>Riverland, South Australia</li>
</ul>
The wine region recorded a 141% surge in requests for depreciation schedules.
<ul>
<li>New England, New South Wales</li>
</ul>
This area recorded an 89% uptick in schedules requested.
<ul>
<li>Logan City, Queensland</li>
</ul>
This city, a strong investor favourite, recorded a 66% increase, compared to greater Queensland’s 19% uptick.
<ul>
<li>Nowra, New South Wales</li>
</ul>
A 64% increases was achieved by this south coast area.
<ul>
<li>Oven region, Victoria</li>
</ul>
A 58% surge was noted for the Oven region.
<ul>
<li>North-east Tasmania</li>
</ul>
A 46% surge was seen in the north-east of Tasmania, despite greater Tasmania recording no increase.
Interestingly, these increases in individual regional ad rural areas strongly outpaced their respective state-wide averages. The activity growth in South Australia was at 20%, New South Wales saw a 23% surge and Victoria was up 19%.
Beer said that this may be due to the cheaper house prices and higher rental yields available in the rural and regional areas.
“With many capital cities experiencing considerable capital gains over the past few years, some investors appear to be seeking out alternate market segments in order to enter the market faster and at a lower price while still realising a solid return,” he said.
“These locations present a unique opportunity for investors willing to think outside the box and take advantage of regions able to still provide returns but at a much lower cost of entry.”
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