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“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into.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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Hi Margaret,
I am currently working full-time earning $875 per week after tax. I want to buy a franchise coffee business that is about $500,000 inclusive of everything.
If I buy a property and build a duplex, strata subdivide and then sell one for $600,000 and keep the other, can I use that money to invest in the coffee business?
Or does that $600,000 need to go back to the home loan repayment?
Assuming: 
<ul>
<li>Purchase price of property - $650,000</li>
<li>15% deposit no mortgage insurance - $97,500</li>
<li>Construction loan - $450,000</li>
<li>Total loan - $650,000 + $450,000 - $97,500 = $1,002,500</li>
<li>Repayment (5%) - $4,062 per month</li>
<li>Rental income from one half of duplex ($450 per week)</li>
</ul>
Kind regards,
Daniel
Margaret's answer on the next page. Please click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Hi Daniel,
Regardless of what you intend to use the money for at the end of your project, when you borrow from a bank to purchase or develop residential property, you must at all times have in place enough security to cover the outstanding balance of the loan in the proportions required by the maximum LVR allowed.
In your case, you are after a 15% deposit loan ($85% loan). So, when the time comes to sell one duplex half, you must pay back enough of the original loan to ensure that the remaining loan does not exceed 85% of the remaining security.
In your case, if you ended up with two duplex halves each worth $600,000 and you sold one, the remaining security value is $600,000. This means the maximum loan you can have outstanding, at 85%, is $510,000.  If your loan was $1,002,500 you would have to repay $492,500.  You can keep the remaining $107,500.
Having said that, it’s probably not going to be so straightforward. 
Here are some things to think about:
<ol>
<li>Developments always cost far more than people realise.  Subdivision alone can run to more than $100,000 by the time you add a driveway and or even begin construction.  There are many costs and council contributions that people simply never think about that can blow out a development and mean that you don’t make any money or worse, come out behind the eight-ball. 
</li>
<li>When you sell you will pay capital gains tax at your highest marginal rate of tax.  If you sell inside 12 months, you pay CGT on the full gain.  So, let’s say the gain after allowable costs is $100,00, and you are in the 45% tax bracket, you pay $45,000 CGT.  If it is more than 12 months, the gain would be halved to $50,000 and you would pay $22,500. 
</li>
<li>When you sell a duplex, you will lose its rental income and when you start your coffee business you will be considered a new business. This will change your borrowing capacity – in fact it will probably be two years before you can borrowing anything.</li>
</ol>
I gather you are thinking of being able to put in place this loan now, while you are working, and then use the funds once you sell the property to provide a home loan rate loan for the business.  Unfortunately you won’t be able to achieve this.  Some lenders will, however, provide franchise finance and include a fit-out loan too, so this is the pathway you are better going down. 
If I may observe – starting a new business takes a lot of time and effort and I am not sure you want to complicate that by also taking on a development of this type.  Simplify your life by concentrating on one project at a time! 
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mlomas-KC9MUPZ6Ca

Can I use the profits from a duplex development to start up a new business? Ask Margaret

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Changing the use of any property can lead to riches.
A former Paddington garage that has been transformed into a two bedroom terrace with parking will possibly prove the adage at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-paddington-117964819" target="_blank">its upcoming 18 October Position Realty auction</a>.
"Having experienced a truly remarkable makeover, The Garage has been transformed into a unique three-storey freestanding architectural masterpiece of contemporary design," listing agent Deborah Terley said.
With custom finishes and interiors throughout, the sleek residence comes with Centrepoint Tower views.
The single storey lock-up garage<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-paddington-113013491" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;"> sold at $822,500</a> in July last year. 
Positioned between adjoining terraces, the then lock up garage occupied its 76 square metre block with a width of 4.6 metres.
It now has 93 square metres of living space plus  23 square metres of courtyard.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/photogallery_new.ds;jsessionid=AD5F9A0E1C4DFC4221F5BDA19ECB4AD6?id=113013491&amp;theme=rea.sold" rel="photos" data-id="113013491"><img src="https://i1.au.reastatic.net/456x342/471c7d6ef95c494be7037f09057f5a8409447d6482edc9286f3754348d813452/main.jpg" alt="19 Hopewell St, Paddington" title="19 Hopewell St, Paddington" data-index="0"></a> It sold through Position Realty agent Deborah Terley with development approval last July.
Previously Laing Real Estate sold it with the property behind for $1.35 million in 2006. The then garage had a de-serviced petrol pit.
More than $1.2 million is now being tipped.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Transformed Paddington garage - now with residence atop

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A review of low documentation, or 'low doc', home loans by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has discovered that lenders have tightened their policies around these mortgage products since 2010.
Before new responsible lending laws were introduced in 2010, borrowers did not always have their financial circumstances verified for a low doc loans, with lenders relying on statements from borrowers that they could meet the repayments.
ASIC notes that in some cases this led to borrowers being unable to repay the loans, or forced to sell their homes.
The review of 12 lenders found that since the introduction of the new laws, lenders had introduced more stringent requirements for low doc loans. New practices included obtaining additional information to verify income and introducing additional processes to ensure the reliability of information provided by brokers.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority has recorded a decline in the proportion of low doc loans of all new residential loan since the introduction of the regulations in 2010. Low doc loans now make up 0.7% of all new residential loans, down from 6.4% in 2010.
ASIC identified three compliance risks with low doc loans:
<ul>
<li>Poor-record keeping, including not recording the outcome of inquiries into borrowers’ requirements and objectives, and the relative priority of these objectives 
</li>
<li>Lenders relying solely on benchmark living expense figures rather than taking separate steps to inquire into borrowers’ actual living expenses 
</li>
<li>Lenders performing limited verification of borrowers’ ongoing fixed expenses for other loans they may have 
</li>
</ul>
Source: ASIC
Lenders reviewed have made changes to their practices in light of the compliance risks identified during ASIC’s review.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Lenders tightening low doc loan requirements: ASIC

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The Australian estate agency CBRE has suggested the recent offshore marketing of Melbourne's tallest building, Australia 108, was being undertaken by "rogue" agencies.
Last week a Singaporean agency started taking buyer interest registrations, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/southbanks-australia-108-marketing-underway-offshore-through-knight-frank-singapore">on which Property Observer reported</a>. The website page was removed this week.
<img src="/images/2014/09/23/australia-108-sept-23-one.png">
Screenshots from the Singaporean website marketing Australia 108 before it was removed.
CBRE was also aware of another Singaporean company taking registrations using dated imagery of the former project.
The ambitious project's former owner, a mostly local Melbourne developer syndicate had begun <a href="/news/vic/fender-katsalidis-australia-108-tower-seeks-1-000-early-buyer-registrants">privately taking deposits</a> on the then 108-storey proposal offering from late 2012.
But the revised project, which is still awaiting final floor plan designs, is now being developed by the Singaporean company, Aspial.
At 319 metres it will be the tallest block in the southern hemisphere.
There will be an estimated 1,105 apartments in the complex, located up to its 100th level with a 2019 estimated completed date.
"It is a rogue operator attempting to get registrations," CBRE Residential Projects Victoria managing director Andrew Leoncelli told Property Observer.
"It's my project," he said, adding the two Singaporean agencies were "unauthorised".
Giving an estimated November 2014 to March 2015 timetable for the initial marketing, he indicated CBRE was the only appointed agency.
While CBRE have not yet taken any registrations, a January 2013 CBRE press release after the development site sale to the Aspial group indicated "people who have registered their interest in an Australia 108 apartment will be contacted with an update on designs for the tower once plans are further advanced." 
The prior Australia 108 consortium included Nonda Katsalidis; investor Adrian Valmorbida; developer Benni Aroni representing the Watersun syndicate made up of himself, Gary Caulfield, Rob Elliott and others; and the Beulah International syndicate representing the Malaysian partners.
Comment has been sought from Aspial.
The Knight Frank Singaporean commission agent spoken to by Property Observer said he had authorisation to take inquiries and registrations.
"Our company has been appointed," he said referring Property Observer to the agency website, which has since been taken down.
<img src="/images/2014/09/23/australia-108-sept-23-seven.png" alt="">
 
Designed by Melbourne-based and internationally renowned architect, Fender Katsalidis, the iconic tower comes with a striking starburst at levels 70 and 71 that will house Melbourne’s highest and largest recreational facilities area for residents.
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The iconic golden starburst will be located 210m above ground level and will house luxurious services for residents, including club lounges, fitness centres and private dining spaces, private theatres as well as two large gymnasiums and infinity edge pools, all of which will enjoy spectacular views over Melbourne. Level 70 will also feature a sky garden,
Facilities on level 70 will be for all residents, while residents living in the 170 apartments located above the starburst (from level 72 onwards) will enjoy exclusive access to private recreational facilities on level 71. The tower’s luxurious penthouse will exclusively occupy level 100. 
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“We see significant opportunities and interest in the Melbourne property scene – given it has been voted the most livable city in the world1 for the last four years. said Mr Koh Wee Seng, CEO of Aspial recently.
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“The Group is extremely privileged to be able to deliver such a landmark project in Melbourne, where we see a great appetite for luxury apartment living. We believe this building will redefine luxury living and also play a major role in showcasing Melbourne as a world-class city and leader in modern architecture,” Koh Wee Seng added, indicating the project had a S$1 billion gross development value.
Prices for one bedroom apartments will start from A$450,000. 
</div>
 
</div>
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</div>
 
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</div>
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Rogue marketing claims in offshore Australia 108 registrations

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With the auctions for The Block Glasshouse only a few weekends away and each listed online, people are already guessing what each Prahran apartment will sell for.
Property value predictor realAs has estimated the price of two of the properties on The Block Glasshouse: Chris and Jenna's unit and Max and Karstan's apartment.
So far, Max and Karstan are ahead, according to realAs. Their algorithm predicts that the apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117846863" target="_blank">3/121-127 High Street Prahran</a> (pictured above) will sell for $1,728,000, based on a price guide of $1.6 million.
Chris and Jenna aren't far behind with their windowless offering predicted to sell for $1,624,000, compared to their price guide of $1.5 million.
Predictions from realAs aren't yet available for Deanne and Darren, Michael and Carlene or Simon and Shannon's apartments.
The listing for Michael and Carlene's apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-prahran-117902235" target="_blank">1/125 High Street</a> describes it as "showcasing the warm style that has made Michael and Carlene major award winners".
Their apartment (pictured below) has 236.8 square metres of floor space, and a southerly aspect. The judges deemed their kitchen, laundry, entrance and living and dining area the best on show this season.
 <img src="/images/2014/09/23/1.jpg" alt="">
Chris and Jenna's apartment, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117921143" target="_blank">pictured below</a>, has 277 square metres of floor space, making it the biggest apartment in The Block.
The apartment, however, also doesn't have a single external window - just skylights and an internal terrace. To make up for it, they're the only apartment with a rooftop terrace.
 <img src="/images/2014/09/23/2.jpg" alt="">
Karstan and Maxine have a 237 square metre apartment, with a north-westerly aspect (pictured below).
The couple also have a "secret" extra room which is yet to be revealed.
 <img src="/images/2014/09/23/3.jpg" alt="">
The apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117915927" target="_blank">4/125 High Street</a>, renovated by brothers Simon and Shannon, has a southerly aspect (pictured below).
The 249 square metre apartment is the second largest, and overlooks High Street.
<img src="/images/2014/09/23/4jpg" alt=""> 
Deanne and Darren's apartment, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117930567" target="_blank">6/121 High Street</a>, is the smallest on The Block, with just 186.7 square metres of floor space.
It does, however, have the most desirable aspect, facing northward and delivering city views (pictured below).
 <img src="/images/2014/09/23/block-sept-23-one.jpg" alt="">
Each team will take home the sale price of their apartment minus their reserve, with the team that has the highest price above reserve also receiving a $100,000 prize.
realAs is also <a href="https://realas.com/theblock/" target="_blank">running a competition</a> for those who think they can guess the end price for the apartments, with an iPhone 6 up for grabs. 
Which apartment do you think will attract the highest price?
{mijopolls 38}
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

The Block Glasshouse apartments: How much will they sell for?

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Following the sell-out of the first stage of Appin Valley in Wollondilly Shire, Walker Corporation have submitted plans to council hoping to release more land in early 2015.
The first stage of Appin Valley, which sold out in less than a year from its release in 2013, offered 336 lots.
The next stage, an extension across Macquariedale Road and Gordon Lewis Reserve, will include 280 homes and a 55 hectare conservation reserve, as well as upgrades of local ovals, barbecue facilities, cycle paths and the restoration of the Inn.
This release will see lots ranging up to 1,100 square metres.
Director of masterplanned communities for Walker Corporation, Chad Walker, said that the sales success has been a result of the location and affordable generous-sized lots, making it compelling for home buyers.
"In particular we had a lot of interest from first time buyers who were attracted to the prospect of owning a brand new home within this historic region while remaining close to major cities such as Campelltown, just 15 minutes drive away,” he said.
“We’ve also seen strong interest from empty nesters looking to move to a more manageable sized lot and young families looking to build their dream home.”
Of the lots, 70% were over 700 square metres, and lots ranged from $180,000 and $315,000.
Partnering with Walker Corporation was Adenbrook Homes and managing director of the home builder, Daniel Galea, said that their most popular design had been the Baywood, which comes in 28 square metre or 31 square metre designs.
“The home is perfect for families. It comprises of three separate living spaces, an outdoor alfresco area, four bedrooms and a double garage. Currently we have eight homes under construction at Appin Valley with 15 more under contract,” he said.
Currently, the final civil construction is underway with an October completion expectation. Over 40 homes are under construction at present.
 
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Walker Corporation’s next Appin Valley release slated for 2015

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A NSW government position paper has outlined 58 changes for those living in community schemes.
NSW Fair Trading Minister, Matthew Mason-Cox, said that more than 25% of the state’s population lives or works in strata and community schemes and by 2040 more than half of Sydney’s housing stock will be multi-unit type dwellings.
“Community schemes range from highrise buildings to rural subdivisions with irrigation channels as association property, as well as large closed communities with private roads, high security and extensive recreational facilities such as marinas and golf courses,” said Mason-Cox.
“The position paper sets out a coherent and informed approach to meet the future needs of residents living in nearly 2200 community, neighbourhood and precinct schemes operating around the state.
“At the very heart of the package are measures that seek to better protect residents with a focus on ensuring transparency and accountability in decision-making.”
This will provide a framework for community schemes going forward, removing the “onerous requirement” for all owners to agree unanimously on decisions relating to their property.
“Special resolutions will be sufficient where a significant majority of owners are in agreement,” he said.
More than 2,000 submissions and 1,200 online comments were made on the 2012 discussion paper.
“Community scheme law reforms will be delivered as part of a package of building industry reforms concerning the multiple occupancy of buildings, strata, security of payments and home warranty insurance,” Mason-Cox said.
The next step will be to draft the Community Scheme Bills, before consultation on the draft legislation in 2015.
Here is a selection about 10 of the crucial changes:
<ol>
<li>Meetings can be attended in various forms, including social media, video and teleconferencing 
</li>
<li>Committee members will be required to “act with due care and diligence” and disclose any potential conflicts of interest 
</li>
<li>A limit will be put on the number of proxies able to be held by any person, and limit the matters in which a priority vote can be used 
</li>
<li>Stop non-owners with a financial interest in the scheme from being a member of the strata/community committee (this would prohibit managing agents and letting agents) 
</li>
<li>A requirement for developers to set “realistic” levies, during the initial period and first year after 
</li>
<li>Disclosure and accountability for managing agents, with a contract term of three years minimum 
</li>
<li>Restriction of developers’ rights to vote on matters relating to building defects 
</li>
<li>Expansion on the issues that can be dealt with at NCAT 
</li>
<li>Better ways to improve parking within schemes 
</li>
<li>A requirement for meetings to be called to authorise certain matters identified in a development contract as “development concerns” (Community title specific)</li>
</ol>
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The 10 changes to know from NSW's strata reform paper

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John Dumesny, who negotiated the $187 million sale of the former Harold Park raceway in 2010, has bought into the unfolding Mirvac development.
Dumesny, the chief executive of Harness Racing NSW, along with business partner, lawyer Eve McGregor, bought a three-bedroom investment terrace at the weekend launch of Chevalier, the fifth precinct in the Glebe development.
<a href="https://haroldparkbymirvac.com/visual-tour" target="_blank">Dumesny worked onsite at the paceway from 1988 to 2010</a>.
"It is like coming full circle," he told Fairfax Media.
The north-facing park-front terrace homes had prices ranging from $1.9 million to $2.15 million.
Of the 111 apartments and terraces offered, 92 had sold by late Saturday taking sales at Harold Park to more than 1000.
The Harold Park project is set on the former raceway site 2.5 kilometres from the CBD.
It will comprise 1,250 apartments and terraces on completion.
<img src="/images/2014/09/23/mirvac-sept-23-breakout-two.jpg" alt="">
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Harness Racing boss secures Harold Park investment terrace

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"It's tradition. Every night on reveal we have a little cry, and the next morning we're all good," said The Block Glasshouse contestant Chris on the latest room reveals' episode.
Chris and Jenna have certainly had plenty of disappointment to bounce back from in their journey from underdogs to wonderdogs and back to underdogs on The Block. This week was no different.
Despite their best intentions, the couple failed to repeat the success of their main bathroom, which earned them a <a href="/expert-insights/building/block-glasshouse-newbies-reborn-with-perfect-score">perfect score</a> from the judges. This week, they came in last place yet again, delivering an unfinished room (pictured below).
 <img src="/images/2014/09/23/block-sept-23-breakout.jpg" alt="">
Though the judges were inexplicably enamoured with Chris and Jenna's choice of <a href="https://www.beaumont-tiles.com.au/AllProducts/ProductDetails.aspx?pid=183022D&amp;Search=three&amp;pspid=1" target="_blank">resin-based 3D tiles</a>, it seems they weren't quite worth the (considerable) effort it took to install them. Chris' scheduling bungle didn't help either: telling his glazier the wrong date set the team back considerably.
Judges Neale Whitaker, Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer had plenty to say about the bathroom's grotty bronze mirror, the electrical sockets hanging out of the wall and poor finishing touches. They were, however, enthusiastic about the design and layout of the bathroom, which managed to fit in a bathtub and double shower.
Chris and Jenna received 23 out of 30 for their effort.
Karstan and Max, who were the victims of some rather laborious pranks this week, didn't fare much better. They delivered yet another glossy, big-tiled, dark bathroom (pictured below). At least the cold-looking rooms are consistent.
<img src="/images/2014/09/22/katstan%20and%20max.jpg" alt="">
One of the major problems with The Block format is the expectation that contestants will respond to the judge's comments from week to week, with each room better than the last. But doing so creates inconsistency throughout the apartments. While the viewing public may enjoy seeing each team progress through a coherent narrative, buyers would rather a consistently styled home.
So Karstan and Maxine's stubborn cling to high-gloss might just pay off on auction day. For now, they remain unpopular with the judges, who awarded the team 24 out of 30.
Perpetual favourites Michael and Carlene also had a less-than-stellar run with their ensuite (pictured below). Unfortunately, the glass door to their ensuite was installed before their tiles were installed, and it didn't fit when the flooring was completed.
<img src="/images/2014/09/22/michael%20and%20carlene.jpg" alt="">
So there was one less piece of glass on reveal day, but it was still too much: Neale declared that the couple's use of glass throughout the ensuite, including glass pendant lights, made it feel cold.
He also hated the dried nettles that sat in Michael and Carlene's bathroom, though Darren defended the dead flowers pictured below. It seems he's a fan of the souped-up potpourri, having used dried flowers in his own book, Easy Luxury. Michael and Carlene were given 25.5 points for their efforts.
<img src="/images/2014/09/22/dried%20nettles.jpg" alt="">
There was some distance between the bottom three and the top two, with Dee and Darren's score clearing Michael and Carlene's by three points. But 28 wasn't enough for Deanne, who declared Shaynna a "bogan from Wantirna" with "no idea about styling" after she gave their ensuite (pictured below) a measly 9/10, citing storage issues.
<img src="/images/2014/09/22/dee.jpg" alt="">
Darren and Dee, who had the smallest ensuite of any team, finished their interior spaces with characteristic WASPish flair (bar the bizarre chevron towels). The couple's provincial styling, as shown in the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117930567" target="_blank">online listing</a> for their apartment, sits a little strangely in an office conversion. It seems to work for them - just not well enough to win the team any prizes.
This week, the award for winning room went to Simon and Shannon's ensuite, pictured below.
<img src="/images/2014/09/22/simon%20and%20shannon%20bath2.jpg" alt="">
The brothers, who had been banking on the appeal of a timber bath, got exactly what they wanted. The judges swooned over their wooden washtub and its spout, which descended from the ceiling. The bathroom also featured glass pendant lights and a gold Chinese drum stool.
They received a 29.5 score this week, earning them a $15,000 prize.
Simon and Shannon will be spending the $15,000 on their terrace spaces, with the apartments' interiors now completed.
All photos courtesy of Channel 9.
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Dead flowers debate on The Block Glasshouse, but ennui ensues after ensuite reviews

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Sydney’s much publicised growth over the past few years has seen record breaking sales and new highs in the median price, and there are a number of forces behind this growth, according to McGrath Estate Agents’ John McGrath.
Over the past 12 months, Sydney has seen 14.8% growth across the board, with McGrath tipping further growth to come.
In <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://issuu.com/mcgrathestateagents/docs/mcgrath_spring_report_2014?e=7704045/9223873" target="_blank">The McGrath Report 2014</a>, he notes that when looking at the drivers of the Sydney market six distinct elements emerge. These six factors, in concert with a recovering economy, are behind current growth.
McGrath notes that the property market is likely to continue growing, but at more modest rates, with continued demand in the inner ring and beachside suburbs, but also in the outer ring areas of Kellyville and Rouse Hill.
Here are the six elements that have driven the growth to date:
<ol>
<li>The return of investors and influx of SMSF direct investment 
</li>
<li>Significant inflow of overseas investment in the residential market 
</li>
<li>Record low interest rates alongside record high rents 
</li>
<li>The impact of a new state government 
</li>
<li>Approval and commencement of several major infrastructure projects 
</li>
<li>Underlying housing shortage coupled with an anticipated population growth of 1.57 million by 2031</li>
</ol>
Source: The McGrath Report 2014
His expectation, while not for 'straight line' growth, is for another 10% to 20% growth left in the cycle over the next few years.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ:
<a href="/news/estate-agent-john-mcgrath-considers-asx-float">Estate agent John McGrath considers ASX float</a>
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/john-mcgrath-s-10-sydney-suburb-picks">John McGrath's 10 Sydney suburb picks</a>
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