High-profile apartment defect cases have changed the way many NSW buyers approach purchasing, putting greater scrutiny on building quality, strata records and the parties behind a development before a contract is signed.

The industry buyers are assessing today, however, is also different from the one in which cases such as Opal Tower and Mascot Towers emerged.

NSW has introduced a series of regulatory measures aimed at strengthening oversight of apartment construction, including Building Commission NSW, the Residential Apartment Buildings Act 2020 and the Strata Building Bond and Inspections Scheme. Under the latter, developers are required to lodge a bond, with independent inspections forming part of the process for identifying defects in new strata developments.

Those changes provide another layer of protection, but they haven't removed the importance of buyer due diligence.

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For purchasers considering an apartment, that means looking beyond the residence itself. Building and strata history, strata reports, the track record of the builder and developer, the condition of common property and any known or planned expenditure by the owners corporation can all form part of assessing a building before purchase.

Whether the development is already complete can also materially change what can be assessed.

An off-the-plan purchaser is necessarily buying before the finished product exists. A completed apartment, by comparison, can be walked through before contracts are signed, allowing the purchaser to see the finishes, common areas and broader building as they have actually been delivered rather than relying solely on plans and renders.

It also removes exposure to some of the uncertainties that exist between an off-the-plan purchase and completion, including construction delays, cost pressures and builder insolvency during the delivery period.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a> National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said that greater focus on tangible evidence is increasingly evident among apartment purchasers.

“The biggest shift we're seeing is buyers wanting proof, not promises,” Hamblett said.

“That's exactly why we deal in completed stock - you can inspect the building before you commit - and why we've backed every purchase with a cash bond against special levies.”

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> in Parramatta, that emphasis on a completed, inspectable product is already in place.

The 413-apartment, 46-level tower at 12 Phillip Street is being marketed by Projects by Equitifund, allowing prospective purchasers to inspect the residences, common areas and resident facilities before committing.

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The Lennox also introduces another layer to the due-diligence conversation through Strata Surety.

The vendor-funded arrangement provides purchasers with a cash-backed bond held in their own solicitor's trust account from settlement. According to Equitifund, the bond covers any special levy raised during the applicable cover period and is provided at no cost to the purchaser.

Special levies can create an unexpected cost for apartment owners where an owners corporation needs funding beyond its existing strata contributions. Under NSW strata law, a special levy requires approval by owners at a general meeting.

Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said Strata Surety was designed to provide something more concrete than reassurance about that potential exposure.

“Buyers have every right to ask hard questions about strata risk - the industry has given them plenty of reasons to,” Huxley said.

“Our answer isn't a reassurance, it's a bond. Strata Surety puts real money behind that confidence, held by the buyer's own solicitor, not by us.”

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For The Lennox, its completed status also means purchasers can assess not only the apartment itself, but a building that has already been occupied and operating for several years.

Completed in 2021, the $300 million development, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, with open-plan living areas extending to private balconies. Interiors incorporate engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops and integrated appliances, while many upper-level residences have views across the river and surrounding district.

Its established amenity can similarly be inspected in operation. Resident facilities include the Watermark precinct with a 20-metre pool, outdoor terrace, barbecue areas, gym, fitness studio and conference room, while ground-floor retail addresses the river walk and surrounding public space.

The Lennox is also home to the Southern Hemisphere's first fully robotic residential car park, which has now operated for several years. Its nine-level basement combines three conventional parking levels with six automated levels, accommodating 327 vehicles using technology from German firm Lödige Industries.

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The riverfront address puts The Lennox close to much of central <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a>'s existing infrastructure, including Parramatta Station, Westfield Parramatta, Parramatta Park, and the Church Street dining precinct.

The remaining apartments form part of a limited release secured by Equitifund, following the sale of the majority of residences before and shortly after completion.

The regulatory environment around NSW apartment construction has changed considerably since the defect cases that reshaped public discussion around the sector. For purchasers, however, regulation is only one part of the equation. The ability to investigate a building's history, review its strata position and, where possible, inspect what has actually been delivered remains central to making an informed apartment purchase.

At The Lennox, its completed status provides that opportunity before contracts are signed, while Strata Surety adds a financial backstop against special levies beyond the protections already provided under NSW strata law.

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Joel Robinson

Buying with confidence: What NSW apartment buyers should check beyond the defect headlines

Too often, heritage buildings become the podium for a contemporary tower. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/623-collins-607-623-collins-street-melbourne-vic-3000">623 Collins</a>, <a>Sterling Global</a> challenged its design team to reverse that process.

The brief to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> was deliberately simple: "Don't design around the heritage. Design from it." It became the philosophy behind a project that draws inspiration not only from two landmark heritage buildings, but from Collins Street itself, a street layered with architectural history and civic significance.

That philosophy has shaped one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a> CBD's most considered residential projects, where the 1924 State Savings Bank and neighbouring Batman's Hill Hotel have become the architectural foundation for 623 Collins rather than remnants preserved beneath a new development.

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Rather than approaching the site as a blank canvas, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sterling-global">Sterling Global</a> saw the existing buildings as the beginning of the story.

"Sites like this rarely become available," the developer said.

"623 Collins wasn't simply an opportunity to develop a prominent CBD site. It was an opportunity to restore and reimagine one of Melbourne's important heritage landmarks while contributing to the continued evolution of Collins Street. For us, the existing buildings weren't constraints. They were the beginning of the story."

Instead of mimicking the ornate heritage architecture, Plus Studio studied the proportions, rhythm and craftsmanship of the original buildings before translating those characteristics into a contemporary 42-storey tower.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145324 project_image_fid=372748]

"The brief challenged us to create a contemporary landmark that respected Melbourne's architectural history without becoming nostalgic," Plus Studio said.

"Rather than mimicking heritage, we sought to understand its proportions, rhythm and material language before translating those qualities into a distinctly contemporary architectural expression."

The practice says the State Savings Bank and Batman's Hill Hotel became the project's primary source of inspiration, allowing the heritage buildings and contemporary architecture to exist "in conversation rather than contrast." Generous planted terraces further soften the transition between old and new, creating elevated green spaces while reinforcing the dialogue between the restored podium and the contemporary tower.

That dialogue continues throughout the interiors, where Melbourne designer Fiona Lynch developed a material palette inspired by the idea of alchemy, balancing contrasting materials that reference both the Neo-Grec detailing of the original bank and contemporary urban living. The result is a series of spaces that feel timeless rather than trend-driven.

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The project will deliver 316 residences across four collections, Heirloom, Signature, Reserve and the Penthouse Collection, with each responding differently to its position within the building, from the restored heritage podium through to the upper levels of the tower. The Heirloom Residences retain defining heritage elements including original heritage windows, generous proportions and high ceilings, while the tower introduces contemporary homes with expansive layouts and elevated views.

Amenities have likewise been designed to support long-term city living rather than short-stay convenience. Residents will have access to concierge services, wellness facilities including a pool, cold plunge, sauna, steam room and gym, alongside private lounges, entertaining spaces and dedicated resident clubs.

Sterling Global says that approach is resonating with buyers seeking permanence rather than novelty.

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According to the sales team, purchasers are looking for enduring architecture, generous floorplans, heritage character and long-term value, with many commenting that 623 Collins "doesn't feel like another apartment development" because of the way the architecture has been curated around the site's history.

Situated on the prominent corner of Collins and Spencer streets, the project occupies one of Melbourne's most recognisable gateway sites, marking the western entrance to the city's best-known street. For Sterling Global, it also reflects a broader shift in city-making.

"Rather than maximising development yield, the project embraces adaptive reuse as a design philosophy, allowing heritage to inform architecture, interiors and the overall resident experience," the developer said.

"The result is a building that feels uniquely connected to Melbourne."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145324]

How Sterling Global designed 623 Collins from Melbourne's history

Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

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Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

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Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

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A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

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The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

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?

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

<html><body>
It’s a tale of two cities: Home loan approvals in September were the highest since October 2009 - yet the month had the lowest proportion of first home borrowers in two decades.
Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that the first quarter of the financial year had 12% national growth in loan approvals over the previous year and 13% year on year growth for September.
This comes on the back of record low interest rates, high clearance rates and a boost in the number of properties for sale.
However, increased investor activity – and a noticeable rise in cashed-up foreigners - has forced first home buyers out of the race, with their numbers falling from 13.7% of buyers in August to 12.5% in September.
The proportion of first home buyers in the number of owner-occupied housing finance commitments is now one in eight - the lowest since data was collected in July 1991, the Real Estate Institute of Australia says. It is far lower than the long-run average of 20.15%, despite eight interest rate cuts since November 2011.
In contrast, owner-occupied finance approvals rose 12.6% for the 12 months to September and investors took out 5.2% more loans in September than in August.  
"With the proportion of first home buyers at historic lows and figures indicating no bubble in lending, the Reserve Bank Board should be taking a ‘steady as she goes’ approach in December," said REIA president Peter Bushby.  
Changes to the first home buyers’ grants - which in Victoria is $10,000 for the purchase of new homes after July 1 this year but none for established homes – is being blamed for keeping first home buyers behind the eight ball. Pressure on them is further compounded by investors having greater equity in existing property and being able to borrow more at cheaper rates - without the need for mortgage insurance.  
But state treasurer Michael O’Brien said loan approvals for new dwellings in Victoria were the highest of any state. "Victoria contributed 29% of national loans for new dwellings in September which is above its population share of 24.8 %.
"The Coalition government is supporting first home buyers by increasing grants for new homes and bringing forward a major cut in stamp duty.
"Since July 1, more than 6,500 new home buyers have received the stamp duty concession, which amounts to almost $36 million in benefits to first home buyers.
"Targeting the first home owner grant to newly constructed homes – whether in regional Victoria, Melbourne’s growth corridors or new CBD apartments – will stimulate the economy and create jobs in the construction sector." He said the move "brings Victoria into line with New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia".
Loan Market director Mark De Martino said that the first quarter of the financial year was off to "a very hot start" with low interest rates and a recovering property market helping boost activity in the home finance space.  
"Nearly every state is showing double digit growth for the first quarter" De Martino said.  
The 51,938 home finance approvals in September were a rebound from the August figures which saw the first month-on-month drop in approvals in 45 months.  
High auction clearance rates this spring point to a continuing upward trend in market activity.  
De Martino said pre-approvals were helping buyers get a ‘leg up’ over the competition at auctions, although he agreed first home buyers were struggling to enter the market. "As the prospective pool of buyers grows, it’s only a matter of time before first home buyers return. 
"They are competing with cashed-up investors and upgraders who have significant equity in their properties. Building a sizable deposit and understanding their borrowing power with pre approval will give them the best chance to compete in this market."  
Number of Home Finance Commitments September 2013: ABS  
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
State
</td>
<td>
September 2013 v 2012
</td>
<td>
Quarter v Quarter
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
NSW
</td>
<td>
9%
</td>
<td>
11%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
VIC
</td>
<td>
17%
</td>
<td>
15%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
QLD
</td>
<td>
11%
</td>
<td>
12%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
SA
</td>
<td>
19%
</td>
<td>
16%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
WA
</td>
<td>
11%
</td>
<td>
8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
TAS
</td>
<td>
6%
</td>
<td>
8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
NT
</td>
<td>
-1%
</td>
<td>
-11%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
ACT
</td>
<td>
24%
</td>
<td>
23%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Australia
</td>
<td>
13%
</td>
<td>
12%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/2013/11/06/jc-insights.png" width="140" height="150" alt="jc-insights" style="float: left;">PROPERTY INSIGHTS
<a title="Falling first home buyers numbers the result of state government FHB grant meddling" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/falling-first-home-buyers-numbers-the-result-of-state-government-fhb-grant-meddling/2013111166285?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=jonathanchancellor'spropertyinsights">Falling first home buyers numbers the result of state government FHB grant meddling</a>
"The decline in FHB numbers follow the re-targeting of the originating FHB grants and/or stamp duty exemptions across the states to encourage FHBs to buy new homes not established homes."
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staylor-63KgDrKwoY

Home loan approvals soar while first home buyer proportion sinks

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A Melbourne real estate agent was ordered to serve 200 hours of community services after illegally claiming a First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) despite already owning a home, according to the State Revenue Office (SRO) of Victoria. 
The man pleaded guilty to the First Home Owner Grant Act 2000 and Tax Administration Act 1997. His legal team told the court that he was unclear about what he was doing and the repercussions of his actions. The magistrate dismissed this claim due to the nature of the man’s occupation.
The man first bought a property in St Kilda in 2005 and received the FHOG. The grant was later reclaimed after the SRO found he did not meet the residency requirements.
In 2009, he purchased a second property in Chadstone and applied unsuccessfully to receive the FHOG. The SRO rejected the application on the basis that he had not repaid the FHOG for his St Kilda property.
After repaying that amount, he once again applied for the FHOG. During this period he acquired another property in Moorabbin. When SRO investigators questioned the purchase of this property, he provided a statutory declaration stating the Moorabbin property was for investment purposes and he had never lived there.
Upon receipt of this declaration, he was then paid a $16,000 FHOG.
The SRO conducted further investigations and found that the man once again did not meet the residency requirements to receive a FHOG.
The court heard that the man was extremely sorry and had learned an important lesson from his actions. He was then sentenced without conviction to a 24-month community correction order that requires him to perform 200 hours of community work, amongst other conditions. He was also ordered to pay an extra $203.60 of out-of-pocket costs to the SRO within a month.
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dleow-BGaNPbHWyK

Melbourne real estate agent pleads guilty to First Home Owner Grant offences

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The latest mixed-use development to hit Docklands - and possibly one of the last - is the 18-storey $100 million M Docklands designed by award-winning architects Elenberg Fraser.
Located at 677 La Trobe Street, M Docklands will feature 186 apartments, two floors of hotel accommodation and ground floor retail space.
Developed by Capital Alliance Investment Group, some 30% of apartments have sold pre-launch to a mix of investors and owner-occupiers.
Two penthouses have already been snapped up, with two top-floor penthouses still on offer from $1.65 million.
Buyers will be able to design their penthouse from scratch, with the developer footing all the design and consultation costs with Elenberg Fraser.
The four penthouses will have access to an exclusive rooftop terrace on level 19.
One-bedroom apartments range in size from 42 square metres to 52 squares and start from $355,000.
Two-bedroom apartments range in size from 62 square metres to 74 square metres and are priced from $490,000.
Residents will have access to resort style facilities in the Lacrosse development next door, including a pool and gym accessed via and undercover walkway.
Levels two to four of the development will include a 68-room apartment hotel known as Peppers Docklands Melbourne.
Mantra Group is to manage the five star hotel, choosing to operate under the group’s luxury Peppers brand.
“We are very particular about using the Peppers brand on the right property, and this development presents us with an excellent opportunity to secure a presence of appropriate scale and quality for Peppers in a prominent location and we are confident it will be embraced by both locals and visitors to Melbourne,” says Mantra Group chief executive officer Bob East.
The hotel will be part of stage two of the development and will be the first Peppers property in the Melbourne CBD but will accompany four properties in regional Victoria.
Mantra Group will manage an onsite restaurant, pool and gym, with residents of M Docklands having some access to the hotel’s facilities.
Construction on M Docklands is scheduled to commence in June 2014 and has an expected completion date of mid 2016.
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ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Elenberg Fraser-designed Docklands development to host first Peppers hotel

<html><body>
Its never been easy. Every generation of first home buyers has faced affordability obstacles and choices, but the noisiest of the latest batch of first home buyers would prefer to bleat rather than make the latterday sacrifices that were undertaken, in an earlier form, by their parents. 
I accept that the 2013 buying prospects are diminished, but the buying priorities and requirements appear almost non-negotiable by this so-called, doomed to rent for life generation.
At weekend auction, when the APM median house sale price was a likely record $1.065 million, I spotted at least 25 offerings sold at below $500,000, with opportunities for instance to buy a unit in Meadowbank, Cronulla, Parramatta, Summer Hill, Burwood, Five Dock, Croydon Park, even Bronte.
There were houses in Granville, Casula, Parramatta, Blackett and Fairfield West.
The weekend's cheapest sale was $191,000 for a four bedroom 1960s house on 1500 square metres in the Blue Mountains. The Bullaburra property, which sold to an investor, had last sold at $240,000 in 2007. The suburb's median house price is $377,000.
Sydney currently has 51 suburbs with median house prices below $400,000 including:
Tregear $240,000
Bidwill $250,000
Blackett $251,000
Emerton $252,000
Lethbridge Park $255,000
There are 122 Sydney suburbs with house medians below $500,000.
For units, it has 45 suburbs with median unit prices below $400,000.
There are some 98 suburbs with below $500,000 unit median prices.
That's out of the 650 Sydney suburbs.
Some of these options are located in the upper north shore, the inner west and the city and east, including Hornsby $450,000 units, Forest Lodge $456,000 units, Newtown $466,000 units, Ultimo $490,000 units and Eastlakes $410,000 units.
Yes APM has previously acknowledged the average distance from the city centre for the Sydney suburbs below $400,000 was 52 kilometres.
That's compared with 36 kilometres in Melbourne and 30 kilometres in Brisbane, APM noted.
But as Andrew Wilson, the senior economist at Australian Property Monitors recently noted, Sydney has a lower end housing market that is "as accessible, if not more accessible, than most other capital city markets."
With the Sydney median house price now exceding $700,000, it is the option for first buyers to look where they can buy new houses for less than $400,000 and existing stock for over $240,000.
Sydney, with its high median because the middle market is so strong, does has the buying prospects. They just have to be viewed as worthy, transitory, not unpalatable.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au"></a><a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

First home buyers have choices; but they deem distant western Sydney option unpalatable

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For property managers, landlords, and short-term rental owners, schoolies can understandably be a significant time of stress with young high-school grads likely resident in your properties, particularly around coastal and holiday areas.
Recently, schoolies <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/schoolies-warned-not-to-trash-apartments/2013101465683">have been warned not to trash apartments</a>, and while it can be a nervous time, much damage can easily be avoided with some simple risk mitigation and ground rules, according to Archers Body Corporate Management senior body corporate manager Michael Ryall.  
“To assist with preventing any misbehaviour or tragic events unit owners should revisit their behaviour management plan and schoolies ‘House Rules’ now,” said Ryall, noting the majority of graduates are actually well behaved.  
Sending the rules to school leavers early, to ensure they understand expectations, can be a quick and easy way to stamp out any issues.  
“A body corporate has control over the common property but cannot independently take action such as locking doors to restrict access to areas within a single lot,” he said.  
“If owners are looking to lock balcony doors they should discuss this with the resident managers of their buildings.”  
With many schoolies concerned about getting their bond money returned, he said that it’s unlikely trouble will occur, however resident managers on site should be enforcing the house rules.
He suggested some of the following guidelines: 
<ul>
<li>No glass bottles in the room or pool area (bag checks can be carried out by onsite security)</li>
<li>Maximum of two external guests permitted to the room at any time, with identification held at reception (this restricts likelihood of parties)</li>
<li>Noise must be kept to a minimum</li>
<li>Dangerous behaviour will be dealt with by police</li>
</ul>
“Any damage made to the room or contents during a stay will come out of the bond amount. If schoolies encounter problems, the best way to come to a resolution is to talk to the accommodation provider with respect,” he said.  
“Accommodation providers are required to have a complaint handling process and schoolies are entitled to lodge a written complaint if they feel that they have been treated unfairly.”  
Tips for schoolies looking to get their bond back:   
<ul>
<li>Obtain a receipt, find out when the money will be paid back and how any potential disputes will be resolved</li>
<li>Become very familiar with your house rules and responsibilities under the accommodation’s booking conditions and make sure you and your friends abide by them</li>
<li>Inspect the room very well as soon as you arrive and report any damage as soon as possible. Take photos of any damage or marks so you have a record</li>
<li>Be present and attentive during the check-out inspection and talk to the accommodation provider about the final report</li>
</ul>
Source: Archers Body Corporate Management  
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Schoolies are on their way to a rental near you: Risk mitigation tips

<html><body>
When it comes to safety and the upkeep of the investment properties, or “rental properties,” the question that echoes through the industry is this one: Who is liable should anything happen to the tenants? <a target="_blank" href="/news">In my last article</a> there were a number of issues raised and the need for property managers to be better versed in the area of safety and hazards that are overlooked in rental properties. This time around we will look at electrical issues.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/11/08/Just_Think_Property_Safety_Switch_1.jpg" alt="Just_Think_Property_Safety_Switch_1" height="353" width="470">
Electrical fuse boxes
With over 1,000 electric shocks, and on average four fatalities reported in NSW in 2010-2012, I am once again calling out to the authorities to take action in what is an alarming situation when it comes to lack of safety and electrical negligence on the part of the agents/landlords. In the last three months we have inspected new managements coming into our office and find a disturbing number of properties with dangerous and faulty electrical cabling and particularly fuse boxes with no adequate safety measures.
Many believe that by having one “safety switch” it is enough to protect the occupants. Well, it’s not. These only protect the power circuits in most instances. What of the light circuits, the hard wired stoves, water heaters and air conditioning units that require circuit breakers? But then there are also a number of properties that don’t even have a safety switch.
Alarmingly we come across these regularly. I am not referring to just self-managed rental homes either, but also to properties that have been managed by professional agencies and for many years.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/11/08/Just_Think_Property_Safety_Switch_2.jpg" alt="Just_Think_Property_Safety_Switch_2" height="353" width="470">
Where do we begin?
I am not calling for real estate agents to become electricians, but surely simple observations can determine if the main electrical boxes require professional attention and upgrading. The main indicator will no doubt be the age of the property itself. My soccer coach used to tell us “if in doubt kick it out” when we found ourselves overwhelmed with the opposing side attacking our goal. Likewise, I say “if in doubt call the expert” in this case the electrician that is up to speed with the regulations and requirements. Better still, send the electrician a photo through your smartphone and get an answer ASAP. Don’t delay the response or action, electricity is not to be messed with.
What I am calling for, is the industry to lift its game when it comes to safety issues and hazards in and around rental properties. But as stated previously, there are many factors preventing and creating an impasse for any lift in standards.
Edwin Almeida is managing partner and licensee-in-charge of <a href="https://www.just-think.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Just Think Real Estate</a>. 
 
 
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ealmedia-arK4DBYLjS

Landlords, lift your game: Safety issues are putting tenants at risk

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The construction sector could be on the cusp of a long-awaited recovery, with the Australian Industry Group/Housing Industry Association Australian Performance of Construction Index recording expansion in the sector for the first time in more than three years.
The index jumped 6.8 points to 54.4 in October - passing the critical 50 point mark which indicates expansion.
‘’Consolidation over the next few months will show whether a sustained recovery will be built on the combination of renewed confidence and low interest rates during the first half of 2014,’’ Australian Industry Group director, public policy, Peter Burn, said.
He was backed up by Housing Industry Association chief economist, Harley Dale, who said: “The Australian PCI breaking into positive territory again for the first time in over three years is a milestone moment.
‘’The indications in recent months have been that this outcome was achievable, but there was a false dawn earlier in the year so this confirmation is heartening news for the construction sector. ‘’
The positive reading was led by the residential construction sub-sectors, however, all the sectors were back in the black with the apartments sub-sector recording the strongest growth in October – up 8.5 points to 66.2. Housing also rose strongly - by 3.8 points to 65.3 after a solid upturn in the previous month.
The new orders sub-index was 3.5 points higher at 54.3 reflecting an improvement in confidence and overall demand across construction in the month.
“The sharp lift of the index in October, which comes after a gradual easing of contractionary conditions over the past six months, is certainly welcome,’’ Burn said.
‘’Consolidation over the next few months will show whether a sustained recovery will be built on the combination of renewed confidence and low interest rates during the first half of 2014.
‘’The residential construction sub-sectors are showing most promise while commercial construction activity lifted from a low base and remains more fragile. Engineering construction recorded a welcome return to positive territory despite the cloud hanging over the near-to-medium-term prospects for this sub-sector as mining-related construction retreats from boom conditions.”
After his ‘milestone’ comment, Dale said: ‘’The indications in recent months have been that this outcome was achievable, but there was a false dawn earlier in the year so this confirmation is heartening news.
‘’The residential sub-sectors are leading the way. What appears a sustained improvement in both the house and apartment activity and new orders sub-indices is consistent with a broader recovery evident for leading indicators of new home building.
‘’The activity and new orders sub-indices for houses indicate further upward momentum ahead for detached house building approvals, itself a further tick in the box for a sustained new home building recovery.
‘’It will be important for recent gains in the Australian PCI to be maintained and built upon, but the results of recent months have certainly been pleasing.”
Australian PCI key findings for October:
<ul>
<li>
After almost three and half years in contraction – the Australian Industry Group/Housing Industry Association Australian Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI) expanded in October lifting 6.8 points to 54.4.
</li>
<li>
Across the sub-sectors:  apartments (66.2) and house building (65.3) expanded at higher rates, while commercial construction (52.6) and engineering construction (52.7) returned to growth.
</li>
<li>
Overall construction activity lifted 5.4 points to 57.3.
</li>
<li>
New orders across the sector were stronger at 54.3 – reflecting the activity improvements across all sub-sectors.
</li>
<li>
After 40 months of decline, employment increased to 52.5 in October.
</li>
<li>
Selling prices continued to decline, although at a slower rate (48.9).
</li>
<li>
The increase in input prices was stronger in October (72.1).
 
 
</li>
</ul>
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Construction sector may be on cusp of recovery

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Without a doubt one of the overwhelming characteristics of the Mosman market was the insatiable desire of residents to trade in the market. Today, it is instinctively clear that this desire has been lost as a result of the global financial crisis (GFC) as residents re-calibrate their lifestyles and requirements. For example, in 2012 out of 52 weeks there were on 33 occasions more than 100 houses on the market. In 2013 Mosman has only broken the 100 mark on just four occasions which explains why so few houses are on the market. I did a comparison for house sales in Mosman for 2013, 2012 and 2007 (the golden market before the GFC hit.)
Bear in mind before the GFC Mosman used to trade approximately 10% of the approximate 4,800 houses – 480.
Mosman house sales January 1 2013 to November 7 2013.
<ul>
<li>
Total – 267
</li>
<li>
Average Price – $2,825,942
</li>
<li>
Private Treaty – 207
</li>
<li>
Public Auction – 60
</li>
<li>
Total Value Sold – $714,324,833
</li>
<li>
Adjusted Clearance Rate – 44%
<ul></ul>
</li>
</ul>
Mosman house sales January 1 2012 to December 31 2012.
<ul>
<li>
Total – 283
</li>
<li>
Average price – $2,852,759
</li>
<li>
Private treaty – 250
</li>
<li>
Public auction – 33
</li>
<li>
Total value sold – $788,975,000
</li>
<li>
Adjusted clearance rate – 22%
</li>
</ul>
Based on what is on the market today it would be fair to assume that 2013 Mosman house sales will go very close to reaching $1 billion as well as breaking the 300 barrier, so all in all the Mosman market is performing much better than many give credit.
Mosman house sales January 1 2007 to December 31 2007.
<ul>
<li>Total – 374</li>
<li>
Average price – $3,035,363
</li>
<li>
Private treaty – 324
</li>
<li>
Public auction – 50
</li>
<li>
Total value sold – $1,135,225,667
</li>
<li>
Adjusted clearance rate – 38%
<ul></ul>
</li>
</ul>
So that’s what the good old days looked like although I’m prepared to forecast that Mosman will go very close to $1 billion in 2013 with total value sold. Houses are in blue and apartments in purple.
<img alt="7-11-2013 1-13-12 PM" src="https://www.rwm.com.au/files/2013/11/7-11-2013-1-13-12-PM.jpg" width="470" height="243">
Of course next year is another story with <a title="surging Sydney property market could spoil RBA’s New Year " href="/news" target="_blank">surging Sydney property market could spoil RBA’s New Year </a>given on Melbourne Cup Day the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) left the cash rate at 2.50% so I don’t think the cash rate will be changing anytime soon. The Aussie dollar is climbing back slowly to a possible parity so should the RBA raise the cash rate this would almost certainly drive the Aussie dollar to parity and beyond.
SQM Research director Louis Christopher was reported as saying the “number of enthusiastic buyers, particularly in Sydney, was behind the shortage of housing stock on the market” compared to this time last year. He said Sydney’s stock levels were down a “staggering” 17.3% which is about right given Mosman is struggling to break 100 yet two years ago we had 175 houses on the market in November 2011.
<img alt="6-11-2013 10-17-51 AM" src="https://www.rwm.com.au/files/2013/11/6-11-2013-10-17-51-AM.jpg" width="470" height="320">
Record low interest rates have seen the Sydney property market recording yearly growth past double digits to sit at 11.4% according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Sydney is leading the way with the weighted average of the eight capital cities posting a more than healthy 7.6% gain for the twelve months to September 2013. Canberra and Adelaide are still lagging behind recording 1.2 and 0.6% for the quarter. Perth (0.2%), Darwin (0.4%), Brisbane (1.2%), Hobart (1.4%), Melbourne (1.9%) and Sydney posting (3.6%) so one can only imagine the conundrum facing the RBA with which direction to take the cash rate.
Unless Sydney starts cooling down it will in all probability allow certain areas to crash and burn given the rest of Australia is so far behind. The areas that will be hardest hit will be south-west Sydney which previously has always had huge price corrections and given they are recording record prices so it’s hard to see this being sustained. In 2004, south-west Sydney sustained drops of up to 55% although this time around I don’t see it being as severe given what rocked the market then was the cash rate jumping from 4.25% in February 2002 to 6.75% in December 2007.
The cash rate will go back up and as history shows there are always casualties along the way.

<hr>
Robert Simeon is a director of <a style="font-size: 14px;" title="RWM" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Richardson  Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay </a>and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985.
He has also been writing real estate blog <a title="Virtual Realty News" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000.
The RWM real estate model has sold in excess of $1 billion in database sales globally.
 
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robertsimeon-hRNTwJyXkQ

Sydney property market is going to give the RBA one hell of a headache

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A summary of properties currently listed for sale around the country indicates that there are a higher number of properties now on the market than at any other period across 2013.
The heightened volume of stock on the market could provide future challenges, should the amount of advertised properties continue to grow.
At an individual capital city level, new house listings are growing with an increase of 3.1% from last year. For units, the number of new listings is 6.8% higher than a year ago.
<img width="470" height="234" src="/images/stories/2013/11/08/kusher-nov-8-chart-one.gif" alt="kusher-nov-8-chart-one">
By looking at total listings available for sale, the results show that there is clearly a deficiency for houses when compared to last year with listings -15.6% lower compared to units which recorded a 3.5% rise.
Across individual capital cities, new house listings are lower than a year ago in Adelaide and Hobart and new unit listings are lower in Brisbane, Adelaide and Darwin. Total listings for houses are also lower than they were a year ago in all cities except Perth and Darwin and total listings for units are lower than a year ago in Sydney and Brisbane, but higher elsewhere.
Stepping outside of these broad trends, the sharp rises in properties available for sale in both Perth and Darwin is worth noting. However, something to keep in mind is that in late 2012 and early 2013 both cities enjoyed their strongest capital growth conditions. The latest RP Data Rismark results to October show that both cities recorded recent falls in home values.
<img width="470" height="243" src="/images/stories/2013/11/08/kusher-nov-8-chart-two.gif" alt="kusher-nov-8-chart-two">
Number of houses listed for sale:
• Sydney (15,535) is lower than house listings in both Melbourne (21,492) and Brisbane (15,566)
• Melbourne also has a higher total number of units available for sale (12,135) than those in Sydney (9,013).
• RP Data listings results highlight that the total supply of stock available for sale is lower than at the same time last year.
Cconsidering that sales volumes are around 20% higher than at the same time last year it’s no wonder that we are seeing upwards pressure on home values.
Lately we’ve seen listings start to climb and it will be interesting to see how this unfolds and whether they remain elevated into 2014, or, if we see moderation such as that recorded at the start of 2013.
The charts address the number of unique new and total residential properties listed for sale at a national level where over recent months it can be seen that there has been a trend towards a higher number of new and total property listings.
<img width="470" height="248" src="/images/stories/2013/11/08/kusher-nov-8-chart-three.gif" alt="kusher-nov-8-chart-three">
Currently there are 49,920 new properties listed for sale and 267,114 total properties listed.
• New property listings are at their highest level since the week ending 9 December 2012 and total listings are at their highest level since the week ending 23 December 2012.
• Although both new and total listings are currently at heightened levels, new listings are only 0.5% higher than at the same time last year while total listings are -10.2% lower than a year ago. Over the past four weeks, there were 30,997 new capital city properties listed for sale and 117,426 total property listings.
• 62.1% of all new listings were in the capital cities compared to just 44% of total listings. This is reflective of the stronger overall housing market conditions within capital cities and the subsequent fact that homes are selling quicker in these regions. Compared to the same time last year, new property listings are 3.5% higher and they are at their highest level since the final week of November last year.
• The number of properties available for sale is higher than it has been throughout 2013. The heightened volume of stock on the market could provide future challenges, should the amount of advertised properties continue to grow.


<hr>
 Cameron Kusher is senior research analyst at <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">RP Data</a>.
 
 
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

More homes on the market than at any point this year

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Jobs are an important element of the housing market equation. Without a job it’s hard to keep up mortgage payments or apply for a loan and the same can be said when the hours worked are too few. A weaker jobs market will generally translate to less wages growth and less upwards pressure on dwelling values. So it’s encouraging to see Australia’s labour market remains fairly tight, at least from an international standpoint.
The labour market data for October which was released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics last week showed a headline seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of just 5.7% which is unchanged from September after an upwards revision over the month. As some international comparisons, unemployment in the USA is 7.2%, the Euro area is at 12.2%, United Kingdom has an unemployment rate of 7.7%, New Zealand is at 6.2% and Canada is recording unemployment of 6.9%. There are plenty of counties with a lower rate of unemployment than Australia’s (for example, Japan at 4.0%, Germany at 5.2%, China at 4.0%, Switzerland at 3.0%), however Australia’s jobs market is looking OK at face value.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/National-unemployment-rate-580x198.jpg" alt="National unemployment rate" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2679" height="160" width="470">
Taking a look below the headlines though shows some aspects of the labour market which are softening.
For a start, at a national level there were no full time jobs created over the past 12 months. The total number of jobs created over the twelve months to October 2013 was 89,200 of which there were 59,500 fewer full time jobs and 148,700 more part time jobs. The last time we saw such a divergence in full time versus part time jobs creation was back in 2008.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Annual-change-in-number-of-full-time-and-part-time-jobs-580x216.jpg" alt="Annual change in number of full time and part time jobs" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2680" height="175" width="470">
At a state level we can get a clearer idea of where the jobs are being created and lost (note that the below data isn’t seasonally adjusted). It’s encouraging to see that Queensland, where the jobs market has been patchy since the onset of the GFC, has recorded the highest level of jobs growth with 53,500 new positions over the past year. That equates to more than half the national total which is a very positive sign for the Queensland economy and housing market. Victoria is showing the second largest number of new jobs at 25,700 followed by Western Australia (18,400) then New South Wales (10,800). There were 13,600 fewer jobs in South Australia and 5,600 fewer jobs in Tasmania.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Number-of-jobs-created-over-past-twelve-months-580x226.jpg" alt="Number of jobs created over past twelve months" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2681" height="183" width="470">
Analysing the data across full time and part time jobs creation gets a bit more interesting. Just to qualify this data before going into the detail, the Australian Bureau of Statitics classifies a part time job as one where the worker has worked for less than 35 hours over the week. So the definition is quite liberal. The downturn in full time jobs creation was caused almost entirely by a reduction of full time jobs in New South Wales where there were 48,700 fewer full time workers over the year. In balance, the level of part time jobs growth was the highest of any capital city, however the reduction in full time employment is disturbing and potentially is another factor why first time buyers are such a small proportion of the NSW housing market.
Queensland, where overall jobs creation has been the strongest over the past year, recorded only 5,100 new full time jobs over the year, or about 9.6% of the total number of new jobs.
Victoria created the most new full time jobs (11,400 over the past year) and shows the best split between full time and part time jobs creation (44% of new jobs were full time and 56% of new jobs were part time).
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Annual-change-in-number-of-jobs-full-time-versus-part-time-580x225.jpg" alt="Annual change in number of jobs, full time versus part time" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2682" height="182" width="470">
Part time workers as a proportion of the total number of jobs reached a new record high in October, comprising 30.5% of the jobs pool. Despite the rise in business confidence since the federal election, the labour force data suggests that tough business conditions are causing employers to remain reluctant to make long term employment commitments at the moment.
<a style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline-width: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; color: #bf0000; text-decoration: none;" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g2677]" href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Proportion-of-part-time-workers-employ3ed.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Proportion-of-part-time-workers-employ3ed-580x191.jpg" alt="Proportion of part time workers employ3ed" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2683" height="155" width="470"></a>
Another factor that suggests the jobs market isn’t quite as buoyant as what the headline figures would suggest is the participation rate which has been trending lower since November 2010. Participation in the labour force has moved from 66.0% in November 2010 to 64.8% in September and October this year. Clearly we are seeing more eligible members of the labour force ‘opt out’ due to either early retirement (the ageing baby boomer cohort is no doubt fuelling the lower participation rate) or frustration with an inability to secure a job.
Without a lower participation rate the jobless rate would have certainly moved higher. Westpac have suggested that if the participation rate hadn’t slipped lower over the past six months the current rate of unemployment would be 6.5% nationally.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Labour-force-participation-rate-580x206.jpg" alt="Labour force participation rate" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2684" height="167" width="470">
An interesting feature of the declining participation rate is that it is being dragged lower primarily by males, rather than females, leaving the work force.
<img style="margin: 0px auto 15px; padding: 3px; border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; outline-width: 0px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.701961); max-width: 100%; text-align: center; height: auto; display: block; vertical-align: bottom;" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Participation-rate-males-v-females-580x196.jpg" alt="Participation rate males v females" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2685" height="159" width="470">
The official forecast from Treasury is that the national unemployment rate will peak at 6.25% in June next year. If the participation rate continues to fall the official national jobless rate might not reach this high despite what appears to be softer underlying labour market conditions.
It’s worthwhile reminding that unemployment is a lagging indicator; higher unemployment comes after weaker economic conditions. Leading indicators such as dwelling approvals, consumer and business sentiment, share market performance and number of hours worked have shown a much more positive flow over recent months suggesting that labour markets may benefit from these improved business conditions in the future.

<hr>
Tim Lawless is national research director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" rel="nofollow">RP Data.</a>
 
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